Boy shocked after large groups of 'reckless' people gather on Southsea Common
A BOY has spoken of his ‘shock’ after seeing large groups of people gathered on Southsea Common.
The 16-year-old described the scenes as being reminiscent of a festival with music being played and rubbish being scattered everywhere.
Pictures taken at Southsea Common on Tuesday evening show several different groups of people gathering in the area.
From the images the people in the groups do not appear to be observing any form of social distancing.
He said that there were ‘hundreds’ of people at Southsea Common and the beach.
He added: ‘I think it was a shock to see how reckless people were being.
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‘Furthermore, I don’t understand how these people can behave so inconsiderately and not receive any consequences, while putting the city and NHS at risk.
‘It completely undermines the message from the government, and makes me feel as if adhering to the rules is pointless, and has been a waste of time.’
It comes after there was a furious reaction last week as photos showed teenagers gathering on Southsea Common, while groups were also pictured at the Hot Walls.
Google data has shown an increase in footfall since early lockdown restrictions were lifted.
Suzy Horton, councillor for central Southsea, said: ‘You would like to think that people can behave responsibly but the messages that have come out over the last few weeks have been a bit muddled.
‘Maybe people are not 100 per cent sure what they are allowed to do. The responsibility has been passed over to the individuals – hopefully nothing untoward happens.’
The Liberal Democrat councillor admitted there could be an increase in Covid-19 cases if people ignore social distancing advice. ‘Logic would say if you don’t social distance there could be a possible rise,’ she said.
Ms Horton revealed she has only been out briefly since lockdown because she lives with a 102-year-old and believes people have to take personal responsibility.
She said: ‘I’ve only been a bit to get some fresh air. I’ve done everything to protect my family by following the scientific advice.
‘But lockdown has been vastly different for different families and people have to weigh-up different considerations.
‘If you have been locked-up in a flat you can understand people wanting to go onto (Southsea) Common.
‘I appreciate some people are able to go out but mixed messages have aided the situation.’