Liverpool police warn of virus threat after Anfield party

Warning concerning the ongoing menace posed by the coronavirus pandemic, police have criticized Liverpool followers for partying on the streets of their hundreds to rejoice the membership ending its 30-year title drought. Supporters set off fireworks and purple flares outdoors Anfield on Thursday evening after Chelsea’s 2-1 victory over Manchester City in London clinched the Premier League trophy for Liverpool with seven video games remaining.

“The overwhelming majority of fans have recognized the fact that now is not the time to gather together to celebrate, and chose to mark the event safely,” mentioned Rob Carden, assistant chief constable of Merseyside Police. “They are a credit to this city. Unfortunately, as we have seen throughout the lockdown period, not everyone adhered to the regulations in place. Although the vast majority of celebrations were good natured, a large number of people chose to gather outside the stadium.”

More than 1,500 individuals have died after contracting COVID-19 within the Liverpool area since March.

“In the days ahead, we urge supporters to do the right thing and celebrate safely with members of your household and in your social bubble,” Carden mentioned. “By doing this you keep yourself, your family, friends and neighbours safe. As we all know, Merseyside has been disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and we must all do what we can to prevent further cases and deaths in our communities.

“We understand people will feel jubilant that Liverpool has secured the league title for the first time in 30 years, and the time will come when fans can return to Anfield to applaud the team and to celebrate their achievement.”

Landmarks round this northwest port metropolis shall be lit purple for the following week to mark Liverpool’s first English title since 1990.

Joe Anderson, the Everton-supporting mayor of Liverpool, urged followers to stick to social distancing. Mass gatherings are nonetheless banned, together with pubs being shut since March, as a part of efforts to comprise the unfold of the coronavirus.

“The passion and the enthusiasm and the excitement of fans clearly meant that they were prepared to take risks unfortunately and it’s disappointing ,” Anderson mentioned. “But it’s gone now, it’s over, and what we’ve got to look forward to is making sure that people remain safe now and vigilant at all times in the post-victory of last night.”