Police fine two men after finding 20 people at baby shower in east London
Two men have been fined for breaching coronavirus laws after police found 20 people attending a baby shower in east London.
Officers were called to an address in Hornchurch on Sunday evening following reports there was an illegal gathering taking place in a house.
When they entered the property they found 20 people from different households holding a baby shower party with presents and balloons on show.
Police said the guests, who ranged in age from children to those in their late 40s, had clearly travelled from their homes to attend the party in breach of the current lockdown rules.
Two men, aged 22 and 44, were reported for breaching the Covid-19 laws and will now have to pay a fixed penalty notice.
While the organisers were fined the other guests were advised to leave the house immediately and did so.
Chief Superintendent Stephen Clayman from the Metropolitan Police said such gatherings could have tragic consequences.
He said: “This gathering had people of widely different ages and from different households present. Whilst I fully understand that people want to get together to celebrate events, this is definitely not the time to do it in person.
“A gathering like this can have tragic consequences for all those involved and risks spreading this terrible virus to our loved ones and the wider community. Please have no doubt, we are determined to deal robustly with those who breach the Covid regulations in this way.”
It is the latest example of people ignoring the lockdown in order hold illegal gatherings.
Last week police in the Stamford Hill area of north London broke up a wedding at which more than 150 guests had gathered and on Saturday night officers broke up a large rave in a lock up in east London.
Priti Patel has vowed to get tougher with those who ignore the lockdown and is introducing £800 fines for those who attend house parties.
