Kent Messenger Maidstone

Reality TV celebritie­s at party probed by police

Pub’s socially-distanced gathering is under investigat­ion

- By Sean McPolin

Police are investigat­ing after pictures emerged of hundreds of people including reality stars attending a Bank Holiday party. The £120 per head event organised by The Swan at West Malling took place at the “Wings of the field” in Wrotham.

Videos on social media showed Love Island winner Jack Fincham with friends at Monday’s packed out party.

Youssef Hassane starred on reality show Ex on The Beach and also shared several videos from the gathering.

On one he wrote: “All like minded people loving life and not a single mask in sight.”

It’s led to a backlash for its lack of social distancing and now Kent Police and Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council are investigat­ing.

The local authority, which granted permission for the event, said rules were breached. A statement from the council said: “The event details and risk

‘All like-minded people loving life and not a mask in sight’

assessment shared with us and Kent Police did not give rise to concerns.

“Media coverage of the event, however, does indicate that the measures agreed were not followed and that rules were breached.

“We are now working closely with Kent Police who are leading on the investigat­ion and will be taking appropriat­e action.” Police confirmed patrols attended the party to “remind people about social distancing”. Spokesman Andy Saunders said: “We were aware of an event held in a marquee which had permission to take place under a Temporary Event Notice. “During the event, patrols attended the venue to remind people about social distancing advice and encourage them to adhere to Covid-19 regulation­s. “Photos and videos on social media have since emerged which appear to show a number of attendees had breached the regulation­s and inquiries into the matter are ongoing.”

Prior to the Swan Social event, the pub advised customers that tables would be two metres apart and dancing would be restricted to where people were sat, adding: “We will be adhering to COVID-19 guidelines and expect everyone joining us to do the same, if our rules are followed we will stay healthy and safe.”

 ?? Pic: Instagram ?? Love Island’s Jack Fincham at the event. above, and, right, a post by Ex on The Beach’s Youssef Hassane
Pic: Instagram Love Island’s Jack Fincham at the event. above, and, right, a post by Ex on The Beach’s Youssef Hassane

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