Police break up party near Portchester Castle

Police in Fareham say it's "very frustrating" after having to break up a party of 25 people near Portchester Castle.

Despite lockdown rules, the group had gathered for a baby gender reveal event yesterday (Sunday 21 March 2021).

Officers say they were abusive, weren't wearing face masks and hugged and kissed one another when leaving.

In a post on their Facebook page, Fareham Police said: "Unfortunately we've come across lots of people are breaching the current Coronavirus legislation. This is very frustrating for the vast majority of us that are following the rules.

"We've found groups of youths congregating in the skatepark (which is closed till the 29th March) at Fareham Leisure Centre, a group of males in their 20's at Wicor Rec playing Football and lots more.

"We even found a group of around 25+ adults close to Portchester Castle having a "Gender Reveal Party".

"None of them were social distancing or wearing masks. They became abusive towards the Officers who were dealing with them and eventually dispersed, only after they had all hugged and kissed each other.

"This incident is now under investigation.

"We understand it may be difficult to keep fully up to date with the current rules, however sometimes people blatantly break the rules intentionally.

"We're all looking forward to summer. Please don't ruin it."

The current coronavirus rules and guidance can be found here.