Harrogate Police tell public to stick to rules as crowds gather outside pubs

May 31, 2020

Harrogate Police called on the public to stick to the rules as crowds gathered outside pubs that opened to sell take-out beer. The Coach and Horses and Three’s A Crowd on West Park Stray both opened up yesterday to sell beer.

People queuing for beer were reported to be too close to each other, blocking the pavement. and spilling out onto the road, causing real concern that lockdown rules were being ignored. Harrogate Police said it was increasing patrols.

We have noticed an increase in gatherings on pavements due to queuing for takeaways from various premises and then staying around the area with bought goods. Please can we remind you that when queuing outside premises, you adhere to the social distancing guidelines and enjoy your bought goods away from the queues.

What is the guidance for take-aways?

Setting out clear demarcation for 2m distances for customers queuing.
Asking customers to wait in their cars. Asking customers to order online, on apps or over the telephone to reduce queues and stagger pick-up times.
Making regular announcements to remind customers to follow social distancing advice

Cones have been put up on some of Harrogate’s shopping streets to help social distancing – but not West Park.

The head of highways for North Yorkshire Council, councillor Don Mackenzie tweeted that officers were going to consult with police to “decide whether social distancing measures needed or appropriate at this location”.

There were other examples over the weekend of people ignoring the lockdown rules in the sunshine.

The hot weather saw groups of young people sitting together on the Stray breaking the current restrictions.

What are the current rules for meeting others?

Over the weekend the rules have not changed. People in England are allowed to meet 1 person from another household in a public place outside while maintaining a 2m distance.
From tomorrow, groups of up to 6 will be allowed to meet. People in England will be permitted to congregate in gardens and other private outdoor spaces, instead of just in public spaces. Public gatherings of more than six people from different households will be prohibited in law.