Security measures could be increased at Liverpool Council sports centres after footballers cut locks to hold lockdown matches.
Officers from Merseyside Police responded to reports of a breach of the current lockdown rules at Everton Park Sports Centre on Saturday morning, at around 10.45am.
It was reported youths had trespassed on the site and were playing football, with a number of others spectating.
The ECHO was sent pictures of the match taking place.
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The centre is owned and run by Liverpool City Council and the local authority said it is now looking at increasing security at the facilities because of break ins.
A council spokesman said: "“We are looking at increasing security measures due to issues with people cutting locks and forcibly removing fence panels at the pitches in order to play football in breach of lockdown rules.”
The police said the rule breaching match on Saturday was not the first report it had received of people breaking the rules at the Everton centre.
Inspector Paula Oldham said: “We are aware of potential Covid breaches at this location at weekends and officers are working alongside Liverpool Council to address this issue, with additional police patrols in the area.
“We will continue to respond to reports of breaches of current legislation, and proactively patrol to ensure members of the public are adhering to restrictions.
“With local NHS services facing huge pressure, it is vital that everyone continues to play their part to ensure the rate of transmission of coronavirus is reduced, and our loved ones are protected.”
You can report any matters concerning COVID-19 and the current legislation to us on Twitter at @MerPolCC or through Merseyside Police’s website https://www.merseyside.police.uk/.
