Avon and Somerset’s police chief has described an “exodus” of people leaving Bristol’s pubs and restaurants at the 10pm curfew, but said revellers have been “responsible.”
He also urged people to go straight home and not be tempted to “buy alcohol and hang around.”
The new closing time was brought in last week amid concerns of a second wave of coronavirus but critics said it had backfired when crowds were seen spilling out onto the streets across the country.
Chief constable Andy Marsh said people in Avon and Somerset have been better behaved and urged anyone out after 10pm to avoid off-licences and go home.
Speaking during a Facebook Live with police and crime commissioner Sue Mountstevens on Tuesday (September 29), he said: “I’ve seen really responsible behaviour. Licensees are doing everything they can to keep their businesses going and keep a Covid-safe environment.
“In Bristol there’s an exodus of people coming out of pubs and restaurants at 10pm but they aren’t creating problems.
“If you’re out in the night-time economy and it finishes at 10pm, please go home. Don’t be tempted to buy some alcohol and hang around.
“That way we’ll give the regulations we have now the best chance of working.”
Photos have shown crowds from London to Liverpool congregating on the streets after the 10pm curfew.
But chief constable Marsh said: “We haven’t seen those scenes anywhere in Avon and Somerset.”
He said enforcement around licensed premises will be carried out by councils but police officers will have a role in making checks and gathering evidence.
They can now issue heavier fines for breaches like failing to wear a face mask in a shop or on public transport.
Chief constable Marsh added: “Most people will comply when challenged, which is why we’re issuing relatively few tickets.
“If people refuse to comply or are blatantly disregarding public health, or are repeat offenders, they will get a ticket.
“People under 11, people with autism, people with breathing difficulties, and other exemptions can download an exemption card. Certain conditions are providing bracelets that would explain why they aren’t wearing a face mask.
“Officers will engage and discuss with people before any enforcement takes place.
“If people are worried about other members of the community being judgemental they could wear something that indicates. That’s a matter of personal choice.”
