Police hit Hemel Hempstead music event with £1k fine for breaching Covid rules

Police have issued a £1,000 Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) to the organiser of a music event in Hemel Hempstead which breached coronavirus restrictions.

In the early hours of Sunday, November 1, officers were called to the location off London Road, which was host to an estimated 50 people. They seized music equipment and dispersed the group.

At the time, the law stated that gatherings outside of the home must not exceed more than six people.

On Tuesday (November 17), the organiser of the music event was issued with a FPN. Those who were at the event were given with individual warnings at the time.

Chief Superintendent Matt Nicholls, who is leading the Constabulary’s response to the virus, said: “The grave truth is, these restrictions are in place to save lives.

“There will be a time in the future when we can enjoy weddings, parties, concerts and gatherings unfettered by social distancing and a pandemic which I know has curtailed our way of life for many months now. But please, I urge you to play your part and respect the lockdown measures.

“We have been, and will continue to, conduct regular patrols to ensure that the Government regulations are being adhered to. Officers are visiting businesses, transport hubs, parks, schools and responding to Covid-related calls to addresses in the area.

“I want to make it crystal clear that Hertfordshire Constabulary will not tolerate serious cases of disregard to law and as both these examples clearly show, those intent on ignoring it will be dealt with and educated without hesitation."