All quiet as area marks New Year’s Eve like no other
GREATER Manchester last night marked a New Year’s Eve like no other.
It’s usually a night we all look forward to. It’s a night for celebrations, house parties and fireworks to mark new beginnings and a fresh start.
But under Tier 4 coronavirus restrictions, celebrations this year are muted - not just in Greater Manchester, but for more than three-quarters of England.
Pubs were shut, people cannot socialise with anyone outside their household or bubble and large gatherings are banned.
Both the government and Greater Manchester Police have urged Mancunians to celebrate at home tonight.
Yesterday Matt Hancock said: “Now more than ever, we need to pull together to save lives and protect our NHS.
“If we continue to do our bit by staying at home, we can get through this together.”
GMP’s Assistant Chief Constable Nick Bailey said: “New Year is traditionally a time to celebrate with friends and family, however I would like to remind people of the importance of complying with the rules and ask that you see in the New Year safely and only celebrate at home with your own household or support bubble.
“Restrictions on social gatherings and certain businesses remain in place across all tiers and large gatherings and parties should not be happening.
“We do not want to be spoiling anyone’s celebrations, so please think twice and celebrate responsibly and within the rules.”
And it appears people in Greater Manchester followed the guidance and staying at home.
Pubs and restaurants were closed with their shutters down.
Just a handful of people were milling around in Piccadilly Gardens. The roads were empty apart from the odd taxi and Deliveroo riders on their bikes.
It’s a New Year’s Eve scene we could never have imagined at the start of the year .