Police called to break up groups of revellers on St Andrews beaches

Warning after hundreds of young people gather in breach of rules

Police were called to break up groups of revellers in St Andrews on Monday night amid reports of all-night beach parties in breach of social distancing rules.

Locals said hundreds of young people had gathered on all three of the town’s beaches, with the West Sands proving particularly busy.

One man claimed the parties had involved drinking, music, lights and bonfires and had lasted several hours.

Police confirmed they dispersed a large group of people near the West Sands at around 9.35pm and witnesses said officers were later called to the Castle Sands, beneath the castle ruins.

The incidents have caused alarm in the town, where many had previously expressed anxieties about thousands of students returning to university.

While it is has not been confirmed the parties involved St Andrews students, the university has already warned it may take disciplinary action against anyone breaching strict Covid rules.

It said yesterday it believed the vast majority of students were complying.

Councillors confirmed they were satisfied the university was doing all it could to ensure regulations were adhered to, but described the incidents as troubling and disappointing.

Callum MacLeod, chairman of St Andrews Community Council, said he was concerned and added: “If students, or indeed anyone, are not going to take a hint, then far more serious action will regrettably have to be taken.”

Conservative councillor Dominic Nolan said gatherings on the beach with bonfires were a regular problem.

“These nuisance parties are unacceptable even under normal circumstances but are particularly irresponsible when we all need to observe physical distancing,” he said.

Labour councillor Brian Thomson said all four St Andrews councillors had met with university officials on Monday to discuss arrangements put in place for the arrival of students.

A university spokesman said beach parties and barbecues were common among students, residents and visitors.

“We are working very closely with Police Scotland, and the reports we have received indicate the vast majority are observing public health guidelines… and behaving responsibly,” he said.

If students, or indeed anyone, are not going to take a hint, then far more serious action will regrettably have to be taken. CALLUM MACLEOD, ST ANDREWS COMMUNITY COUNCIL CHAIRMAN

Picture: Kim Cessford. Beach parties are common among students and residents in St Andrews.