Clubs call on public to stay away during emergency

SPORTS clubs across Wicklow are appealing to members of the public to stay away from their facilities due to the spread of the Covid-19 coronavirus.

From Bray Emmets to Arklow Town Football Club and across to Carnew Emmets GAA Club, the appeals are being made asking people not to trespass at their home grounds.

Several incidents have taken place in recent days which saw groups of people entering Arklow Town’s grounds in Lamberton without permission to gather there.

It’s understood that a large group of up to 13 was removed from the club’s facilities over the weekend while several smaller groups have also gathered at the club. All groups were removed from the grounds and Gardai are now monitoring the situation.

‘Some groups of lads were playing football. Every club has shut down due to Covid-19. I know kids are being kids but we can’t accept it,’ said Arklow FC Chairman Bryan O’Leary.

Carnew Emmets revealed that local gardaí brought it to their attention that groups of people were congregating in their GAA grounds.

‘It has been brought to our attention by the local Gardaí that groups of people have been congregating in our playing fields over the weekend. Our aim in the current climate is to ensure that everyone using the facilities, primarily the walking track, can do so in a safe environment. To this end we would kindly ask all our members to practice physical (social) distancing at all times while outdoors,’ they said.

Meanwhile in the Bray Emmets newsletter, people were instructed that nobody is allowed access to the facilities at Old Conna.

‘Our Chairman Paul Cunningham wants to make it clear that no one, repeat no one, is allowed access to any of Bray Emmets facilities until further notice during the current Covid-19 emergency.’