Gosport pub The Jolly Roger fined £1,000 for breaching Covid-restrictions with party caught on camera

POLICE have issued their first fine to a pub in Gosport for breaching Covid-19 restrictions, with officers slamming the venue for its ‘very disappointing’ breach of guidelines.
By Richard Lemmer
Published 3rd Nov 2020, 19:19 BST
Updated 4th Nov 2020, 09:36 BST
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Reports of mask-less patrons dancing in a large group led to police visit The Jolly Roger in Priory Road at 10pm on Saturday, October 24.

The party was caught on camera, sparking an outcry from councillors.

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Now Hampshire Constabulary has issued a £1000 fine to the pub for allowing patrons to attend the premises in groups larger than six, dancing and not socially distancing and not wearing face masks when not seated.

Punters are recorded singing and dancing without masks in the Jolly Roger pub, Gosport, in a breach of social distancing rules.Punters are recorded singing and dancing without masks in the Jolly Roger pub, Gosport, in a breach of social distancing rules.
Punters are recorded singing and dancing without masks in the Jolly Roger pub, Gosport, in a breach of social distancing rules.

PC Pete Rackham, Force Licensing and Alcohol Harm Reduction Team said: ‘It is very disappointing that a licensed premises has been in breach of the clear guidelines around hospitality that are designed to keep customers safe.

‘This demonstrated a clear disregard for the requirements that are there to protect the whole community during this very difficult time.’

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The fine will ‘send a powerful message’ to others tempted to breach the rules, according to Gosport Borough Council leader Mark Hook.

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Cllr Hook said: ‘The new lockdown shows just how seriously we all need to take the rules about keeping safe.

‘I'm glad swift action has been taken in this case. It will send a powerful message.’

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