Blackpool Crowds Ignore Covid’s ‘Latest Blast’ Warning

Visitors have flocked to Blackpool despite police warning against having a “last blast” at the complex before tighter restrictions go into effect.

People reported queues for attractions, heavy traffic, little social distancing, and few people wearing masks inside.

Police had said they were preparing for large crowds over the weekend.

Gem Concannon, 36, of Northwich, Cheshire, said he had visited the resort on Saturday with his family.

She said: “It was hectic, hardly anyone wore masks or social distancing. It was shocking.

“I’ve never seen him so busy before.”

On Friday, Lancashire Police Deputy Chief of Police Terry Woods called for people not to have one “last blast” before the restrictions go into effect.

Said, “I’ll go to Blackpool this weekend if you’re not from [there] and mingling with large crowds, that would not be taking care of your family.

“Making sensible decisions to protect yourself, going to Blackpool in large numbers is the complete opposite of protecting yourself.”

Blackpool’s Director of Public Health Dr Arif Rajpura said: “It is absolutely critical that residents and businesses adhere to the new ‘rule of six’ and follow all of Covid’s guidelines on social distancing and use of face covers.

“The same advice goes to those who visit our resort. The only way to stop the spread of the virus is to follow the rules that exist for a reason.”

New restrictions in other parts of Lancashire prohibit households from meeting at home or in private gardens.

Pubs and restaurants must also close at 22:00 BST.

Infection rates in Blackpool are lower than in some parts of the county, but the area has seen an increase in positive cases.