Coronavirus: Social distancing concerns at Peterborough parks as police see ‘significant rise’ in Covid-19 calls

Police have received reports of social distancing being ignored in parks and cemeteries as they experience a “significant increase” in calls about coronavirus restrictions being ignored.
By Joel Lamy
Published 27th Mar 2020, 06:46 BST
Updated 27th Mar 2020, 11:07 BST
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Officers have carried out patrols at Bretton Park after concerns were raised about people using play and fitness equipment which have been closed in the city in response to the pandemic.

Cambridgeshire police said it has also received regular reports of youths gathering at parks across Peterborough.

The force said: “This is not acceptable.

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“We all have a part to play to look after each other and our NHS. The message from Mr Johnson is clear, safe NHS stay at home.

“We also just advised an ice cream van that they are not classed as a key worker and they were encouraging social gatherings.

“Please stay safe.”

Orton Waterville city councillor Julie Howell said: “I’ve received numerous reports of people cutting the cable ties that are keeping playgrounds closed in Orton and using the playground.”

Police patrolling at Bretton Park. Photo: Cambridgeshire policePolice patrolling at Bretton Park. Photo: Cambridgeshire police
Police patrolling at Bretton Park. Photo: Cambridgeshire police

Reports of youths gathering at cemeteries in Chatteris have also been made, although officers did not find any youngsters when they attended.

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In a separate message, the force pleaded with residents not to call 999 or 111 with questions about Covid-19.

It said: “We are currently experiencing a significant increase in calls to our control room relating to the new government coronavirus restrictions.

“Please do not call our 101 or 999 line with queries about what is and what isn’t allowed during these restrictions, these numbers are for emergencies and non-emergencies only.

“Please visit gov.uk/coronavirus for all the up-to-date information on the new government guidelines.”

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So far four people locally have died from coronavirus - three who passed away at Peterborough City Hospital and one at Hinchingbrooke Hospital.

There have been 10 confirmed cases of the virus in Peterborough as authorities plead for people to follow social distancing rules of staying at least two metres apart from others, and not gathering in groups of more than two.

Residents are also asked to stay at home as much as possible.

RELATED: Coronavirus: Social distancing ignored in Lincoln Road as football matches in Peterborough dispersed by police

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