Covid marshals could soon patrol in Melton

Social gatherings of more than six people are now temporarily illegal in England in response to a recent spike in new Covid-19 cases in the country.

The new regulation applies to households and social settings, such as pubs and restaurants, and offenders could be liable for £100 fines.

Leicestershire Police say they will continue to engage and advise people who flout the ‘rule of six’ but they will punish those who do not obey the rulling.

The government wants a network of so-called ‘Covid marshals’ to be set up by local authorities - either volunteers or paid officials - to support policing of the regulations but no funding has been made available to pay for them.

As the stricter restrictions came into force today, a Melton Borough Council spokesperson told the Melton Times: “The council continues to have an ambassador presence in the town centre each weekend to monitor compliance with government guidance both inside and outside establishments, and our teams have a regular presence across the borough throughout the week.

“Officers are working closely with partner agencies to ensure visitors and residents are able to adhere to the social distancing guidelines and the use of marshals will be assessed over the coming days in line with guidance.”

Hospitality venues are now legally required to record the contact details of everyone visiting and to hold them for 21 days as part of the new regulations, which do not apply to schools, workplaces and organised sport.

Covid marshals, which are optional, would help monitor illegal gatherings and the message from county public health officials is for residents not to be complacent despite numbers of cases falling in the Melton area following a recent spike at the start of last month.

There is evidence that the virus is still circulating with two positive tests at Brooksby Melton College confirmed last week, along with another at Croxton Kerrial Primary School, prompting teachers and pupils to be told to isolate for two weeks.

The borough council spokesperson added: “The council has undertaken a range of measures to help prevent the spread of the virus, including regular disinfecting of town centre benches and bins, clear signage and the provision of outdoor seating areas for the night time establishments.

“The continued support of businesses to ensure residents and visitors can enjoy Melton safely is a priority, and we ask that everyone adheres to the ’Rule of Six’ and remembers ’Hands, Face, Space’ to stay safe.”