A poker party in a pub and a birthday bash complete with a four-piece band – just two of the major coronavirus breaches we’ve fined people for, as we warn people not to be tempted to stray from the rules despite lockdown being eased.
West Midlands Police officers were called to the Station pub on Kings Heath High Street, Birmingham, by a member of the public who told us: “It really needs to be stopped. It’s a joke.”
Around 20 people were issued with £800 fines, and the pub is now facing action for licensing offences after we broke up the gathering, at around 11.20pm on 6 March.
Meanwhile, police found an empty shop on Lodge Road in Hockley had been turned into a venue for a birthday party with buffet, booze and even a four-piece band.
There were 24 people packed into the tiny venue, with officers expecting that more would have turned up had they not arrived so early in the night, at around 8.15pm on 5 March.
West Midlands Police issued 12 £200 fines to the adults there, and six £1,000 fines – to the band members and two organisers.
ACC Chris Todd said: “Our officers take absolutely no pleasure from breaking up these gatherings and handing out fines – but they know it’s the right thing to do.
“It’s fantastic that we’ve got a roadmap out of lockdown, and that the vaccination programme appears to be progressing so well, but it’s vital we don’t blow it by relaxing too early.
“Our approach to policing the pandemic will move in line with the restrictions. We’re still several weeks away from 21 June, which is the earliest possible date that all legal limits on social contact could end.
“Between now and then, it’s vital that we stay focused on reducing contact and stopping the spread of the virus.
“We’ll continue to do our bit – and all we ask is that you help us.”
You can report major breaches of coronavirus legislation to West Midlands Police here.
Content courtesy of West Midlands Police.
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