First mass gathering events had no impact on spread of Covid-19

Trial events across the UK have proved successful

Mass gatherings were trialled, such as Sefton Park Festival
Author: Sophie ParsonsPublished 26th May 2021

A trial of mass events across the UK has proved successful, with scientists confirming that the events did not cause Covid-19 to spread further despite a total of 58,000 people attending.

13,258 people attended a total of four events across Liverpool, which included The Good Business Festival and Sefton Park pilot music festival, as well as two event in nightclubs.

Meanwhile, 20,000 football fans went to the FA cup final and 8,000 to the Carabao Cup final, both held at Wembley.

Other events included the Brit Awards and the snooker championships.

It's good news for the prospect of mass events this summer and the further easing of lockdown on 21st June, when the Government aims to lift all remaining restrictions in social distancing.

How did the events work?

Everyone who attended the trial events was required to take a lateral flow test before entering the venue.

Access was only granted upon proof of a negative test.

Attendees were also encouraged to take a PCR test on the day of the event and then a further test five days later.

People did not have to wear facemasks and there was no social distancing.

The events, attended by 58,000 people, resulted in only 15 cases of Covid-19.

What does this mean for mass events this summer?

Football fans may be among the first to benefit, with fans optimistic that Wembley could operate at full 90,000 seat capacity for the European Championships set to take place next month.

It comes after Oliver Dowden said that he hopes "by 21st June we will be lighting up the West End again, having full stadiums and bringing light and Technicolor back into our national life again."

Some pilot events have been given the go-ahead though, next month’s Edgbaston Test between England and New Zealand will welcome around 18,000 fans each day after being selected as the first of the Government’s latest pilot events.

Download festival will also run a pilot event in June with a capacity of 10,000 people who will be able to camp at the festival with no masks and no social distancing

What restrictions could be lifted on 21st June?

21 June: Nightclubs could reopen

From 21 June all remaining restrictions on social distancing could be lifted, and larger events may be allowed to resume, including theatres. Nightclubs may also be allowed to reopen.

21 June: Bigger weddings

Bigger wedding celebrations may be permitted from 21 June.

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