Extra police keep eye on gatherings this weekend

Sunday 06 December 2020

Extra police officers have been on patrol this weekend to make sure people follow the guidelines on gatherings.

Although the Health Minister has yet to sign an order which puts the current advice on how many people can meet into law, the police can still ask groups to break up.

The guidance is that social gatherings, especially those in private settings, such as parties, barbecues or informal get-togethers should be limited to a maximum of 10 people indoors and 20 people outdoors.

Once the Ministerial order is signed, people refusing to follow an instruction to disband could be fined up to £1,000.

From Friday, individuals were also advised to keep a 2m distance from anyone who isn't in their household.

With licensed premises shut as part of the ‘circuit breaker’ announced on Wednesday, police were concerned that a small minority might choose to socialise in private parties and gatherings over the recommended maximum.

Pictured: All licensed premises have had to shut.

Police Chief Robin Smith said: “Even though bars, pubs and clubs are now closed, Fridays and Saturdays do have a different battle rhythm so we’ll be keeping a close eye on parties and gatherings this weekend.

“The message is less about enforcement and more about reassurance. For us, it is not about bashing down doors - not that we can anyway - but it is about showing the vast majority of people that we are there for them. 

“But for the tiny, tiny minority who choose not to follow the guidance, we and our partners will be ready to pay them a visit.”

Pictured: Police Chief Robin Smith said he was happy to see there was no evidence of a "last hurrah" for islanders, from a policing perspective, before pubs had to shut.

Mr Smith added that the same number of officers out patrolling this weekend - around 20 - were in town on Thursday night, the last before pubs had to shut.

But, despite reports that it was a “last hurrah” for some, he said it had been a quiet night for the force.

“I understand that some pubs were selling off their stock but it was a very smooth night, there was no disorder and we didn’t pick any issues or concerns,” he said.