Manchester residents BANNED from Bank holiday boozing in parks in bid to stop coronavirus spread

MANCHESTER residents will be banned from Bank Holiday boozing in parks this weekend to stop the spread of coronavirus.

A fresh order has been put in place in the city centre due to the pandemic which will stop people from consuming alcohol in open spaces.

Events due to take place have also had to be cancelled thanks to the pandemic, but people have been allowed to meet up outside.

Groups of six from up to two households are allowed to meet outdoors, but across the city people aren’t supposed to meet up inside at all.

It comes as the number of coronavirus cases in the city continues to be above the national average.

A few weeks ago it doubled – and in parts of Oldham reached over 100 per 100,000.

Yet it hasn’t faced a full lockdown – with local leaders choosing instead to put in place less restrictive measures.

The latest stats in Manchester show the measures appear to be working – with case numbers down mostly across the board.

There are now 44 cases per 100,000 across the city, down from 48 last week.

But Bury and Wigan, have seen more cases reported.

Health officials think the virus is being spread from household to household, rather than through workplaces.

It came as police continued to get calls about illegal raves and parties taking place across the country – despite the pandemic.

Manchester, Birmingham and other major cities have all seen cops shut down gatherings.

People attending can be fined £100 – and those who host the bashes will be able to face a £10,000 fine too.

Greater Manchester police confirmed the news today.

Inspector Jonathan Shilvock said: “Due to this year’s events being cancelled, and for the fear of the effect it has on public health, there is a Public Space Protection Order in place in Manchester city centre which prohibits the consumption of alcohol in a non-licensed public place and will be enforceable this weekend by Greater Manchester Police.”

They urged everyone to think of friends and family before breaking rules this weekend.

A spokesperson added: “We’re doing all we can to make sure legislation is complied with to keep everyone safe.”

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