Fears over social distancing grow as hot weather draws crowds to Harrogate

As some of the lockdown restrictions have now eased and people are allowed outside for unlimited amounts of time, providing they keep at least two metres from people outside their household, it was no surprise that the hot weather brought busy streets in the town centre.

But as pubs on West Park, including Three’s A Crowd and the Coach and Horses, opened up to sell takeaway beers, many became concerned that the social distancing guidelines weren’t being adhered to.

People were said to be standing in crowds and queueing closely together, blocking the narrow pavement.

Harrogate Police took to Twitter to remind people of the lockdown rules.

They wrote: “We have noticed an increase in gatherings on pavements due to queuing for takeaways from various premises and then staying around the area with bought goods. Please can we remind you that when queuing outside premises, you adhere to the social distancing guidelines and enjoy your bought goods away from the queues.”

Three’s A Crowd took the decision to close early after noticing that some people were not sticking to the rules in a bid to keep people safe.

Following the weekend’s antics, some residents posted their frustrations on social media.

Caroline Routledge tweeted: “There’s pubs in Harrogate that have opened for take outs, but there are crowds stood outside drinking, like a ‘normal’ day- Madness!”

The Blues Bar on Montpellier Hill also opened its doors yesterday, Sunday, operating a one-in, one-out system and only allowing three people to queue at the door.

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