House party in Worthing breaches Tier 2 Covid restrictions

Officers were called to the address in Shirley Drive, Worthing, last night to deal with the incident.

A 31-year-old man was arrested at the property on suspicion of obstructing officers in their execution of duty.

• READ MORE: What are the differences between lockdown and Tier 2 restrictions

Sussex Police attended the scene shortly after 11pm, discovering a gathering of people from more than ten different households upon their arrival at the site.

"Some were behaving in an obstructive manner to officers," the force reported.

In the new Tier 2 Covid-19 restrictions which came into effect on Wednesday, peopel are not allowed to meet others from different households in any indoor setting - public or private.

Officers were able to disperse the party, arresting a 31-year-old man on suspicion of obstructing an officers in their execution of duty.

Chief Superintendent Jane Derrick

Now, Sussex Police are gearing up to provide a visible presence across the county on the first weekend of Tier 2 restrictions.

Chief Superintendent Jane Derrick said: “We know the vast majority of people will continue to adhere to the legislation as they have throughout this public health crisis. 

"In the run-up to Christmas, people want to socialise but we urge you to only do so within the Tier 2 guidelines.

"Our officers and staff have been patrolling across the county and engaging with members of the public to explain the current legislation generally, and people have acted positively. 

• READ MORE: Brighton and Hove is now under Tier 2 restrictions

"However, those who continue to choose to flout the rules and put other people’s lives at risk will face enforcement action."

Officers will aim to "engage with members of the public, explain the new government regulations and encourage them to follow them" to prevent behaviour which could lead to the spread of Covid-19.

Chief Superintendent Derrick said: “The demands on the police service are nearly now back to pre-Covid levels. 

The entrance to Shirley Drive in Worthing

"Our priorities lie with public safety and so it is even more important that people take personal responsibility for their actions and do their bit to prevent the spread of the virus, so the force can operate effectively for those who need us most."

Police are asking anyone who is aware of a serious and current breach of the government’s coronavirus regulations to report it online.

People should only call 999 in an emergency, the force stressed.