Blackburn college students urged not to 'congregate' in town centre

Lancashire Police have issued the warning.

Lockdown rules mean you can still only be in an outdoor space with one other person
Author: Dan DaviesPublished 19th Mar 2021

Police in Blackburn have received reports that college students are gathering in big groups in the town centre, despite lockdown restrictions.

It has prompted officers to reiterate the importance of following coronavirus guidelines.

In a statement, Blackburn Police said: "We are aware of issues relating to college students congregating in large groups in Blackburn town centre.

"The rules still in place are that you can be in an outdoor space with one person who isn’t from your household, for exercise or recreational purposes. We understand that whilst these students are in education, the college have set their own guidelines, but when they come in the town centre, the national restrictions must be adhered to.

"We will always follow the 4 E’s, which is where we engage, encourage, explain and as a last resort, enforce.

"We know how tough it is right now and that many people are exhausted - we’re confident though that the vast majority of people will take personal responsibility and do the right thing by sticking to both the law and the associated advice/guidance - we are proud of the county’s response all the way from March 2020 and we want to thank everyone for playing their part."

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