It’s MAD-chester! Greater Manchester Police shut down 494 house parties – some with DJs, fireworks and bouncy castles – and 166 street gatherings as covidiots flouted lockdown last weekend
- Police called out to 494 house parties in four days despite virus restrictions
- Between Saturday and Tuesday, officers also had to deal with 166 street parties
- Also 122 group gatherings for sporting activities and 173 gatherings in parks
- Figures released as appeal urges people to stay at home this Easter weekend
Police in Greater Manchester have revealed they were called out to 494 house parties over four days despite the coronavirus restrictions.
Between Saturday and Tuesday, officers also had to deal with 166 street parties, 122 group gatherings for sporting activities and 173 gatherings in parks.
The figures were released as an appeal was launched, involving various personalities in the region, urging people to stay at home over the forthcoming Easter weekend.
![Police in Greater Manchester have revealed they attended 494 house parties and 166 street parties last weekend despite the ban on social gatherings [CLICK TO EXPAND]](https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2020/04/09/09/26993130-8203631-image-a-24_1586422356612.jpg)
Police in Greater Manchester have revealed they attended 494 house parties and 166 street parties last weekend despite the ban on social gatherings [CLICK TO EXPAND]
Among those sending home made video messages were Manchester United footballer Marcus Rashford, his former team-mate Michael Carrick, Manchester City player Steph Houghton, Dan Brocklebank who plays vicar Billy in Coronation Street and Happy Mondays singer Shaun Ryder.
The compilation also includes similar appeals from local key workers such as police officers and staff, a nurse and a teacher.
Chief Constable Ian Hopkins said: ‘We understand the desire people will have to spend time with family and friends over the Easter period. ‘However it is vital that we follow the Government guidelines.
‘We must do this to protect ourselves, our families, our communities and the NHS by preventing the spread of this highly contagious infection.
Police confront a group about social distancing in Manchester’s Piccadilly Gardens on Sunday
‘I am incredibly grateful to all those who have provided their own homemade videos to lend their support to the #StayHomeSaveLives campaign because, as stressed by the Prime Minister, the single most important action we can take in fighting coronavirus is to stay at home in order to save lives.
‘I would encourage everyone to enjoy themselves at home with their loved ones but please don’t socialise beyond the immediate people that you live with.
‘Please don’t participate in other social gatherings inside or outside, no matter how big or small. ‘We are trying to engage, explain, and encourage everyone to follow the Government guidance.
‘However where people do not comply with the guidelines, we will use the legislative powers. ‘We hope that such actions will not be necessary and the public will work with us during this challenging time.’