Cornwall pub fined £1,000 after football fans fail to socially distance

A licensee has been fined after a video emerged showing a group of football fans at a pub ignoring Covid regulations.

The video shows a group of drinkers without face coverings singing, dancing and chanting both inside and outside the premises during England's match against Scotland.

According to Cornwall Council, there was no evidence that the pub's management tried to address this behaviour or attempt to enforce social distancing measures, so the licensee was given a fixed penalty notice of £1,000.

Councillor Martyn Alvey, the portfolio holder responsible for public protection at Cornwall Council, said: "It's really disappointing to see businesses allowing this behaviour to take place at such a crucial time in the fight against Covid-19.

"Most businesses are working hard to ensure that the restrictions are adhered to and we thank them for this. For those who blatantly disregard the rules, we will not hesitate to take enforcement action."

Rachel Wigglesworth, director of Public Health for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, added: "In recent weeks we have seen a rise in cases both locally and nationally. This is predominantly because of the Delta variant which is much more transmissible and spreads very easily indoors. Therefore, it's really important that we continue to follow the national guidance – hands, face, space and fresh air - to keep the virus at bay."

• Photo: Shutterstock / Aleksandar Karanov*