Police warning of Covid breaches near two schools

POLICE say they are concerned that groups of students and parents gathering near two Derbyshire schools are not adhering to Covid-19 regulations.

Officers say they have seen numerous groups of children and parents gathering on a park close to both John Port Spencer Academy and Etwall Primary School.

The Etwall Safer Neighbourhood Team officers – part of Derbyshire police – said they have seen numerous incidents while carrying out patrols in the Derbyshire village. The team warned parents that despite pupils being in “bubbles” during school time, this does not apply when they are off the premises.

Therefore, those gathering in large groups outside school grounds are breaching current Covid-19 regulations and could be issued with fines.

Current rules only allow for people to meet in groups of two only at parks “for recreational purposes”.

Police are also concerned that people are not wearing face masks on these occasions.

A warning was issued on the Etwall SNT Facebook page, with officers urging parents to educate their loved ones about staying safe.

A post said: “Patrols have been carried out in Etwall, encompassing John Port Spencer Academy and Etwall Primary School.

“Whilst it was really great to see everyone back at school, we do have some concerns around the groups of students (and parents) hanging around in the park, not social distancing and not wearing masks.

“Parents, please ensure that you educate you kids in relation to the covid regulations. Whilst they are in a bubble at school, this does not apply off school grounds.”