Large fines handed out to 19 people discovered at house party by police in Northampton
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Nineteen people were each handed an £800 fine for attending a party in Northampton last weekend, police have revealed today (Friday, February 28).
Superintendent Elliot Foskett told a virtual press conference the 'large' gathering was 19 of 150 tickets handed out last weekend and 270 in the past seven days.
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Hide AdHe said everybody there knew they were breaking the lockdown rules and warned anyone considering doing so over the weekend to expect a visit from officers.
"If you're thinking of having a cheeky barbecue with friends over because the weather is improving, it could cost you a little bit more than the price of a bag of charcoal and some sausages if you're going to risk that," he said.
Supt Foskett said the 'substantial' amount of enforcement was necessary to keep the spread of coronavirus down and most were due to households mixing illegally
He added that traffic numbers have also risen in the past week to just 25 per cent below the pre-lockdown levels and urged people to consider if their journey is essential.
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Hide AdWith schools fully reopening on March 8, Supt Foskett also reminded parents and guardians not to 'stand chatting' when dropping children off and remember to socially distance.
"You know we're not going to shy away from enforcing and issuing tickets, we are one of the forces in the country who are issuing tickets more than anywhere else," he said.
"Don't risk it, the restrictions are still in place, it's not worth it."