Warning issued as unofficial gatherings planned in Cambridge
People are being warned to only travel into Cambridge if they need to during what is expected to be a busy weekend of unofficial gatherings.
Cambridge City Council is working with the police and other partners to prepare unofficial gatherings on Midsummer Common and Jesus Green, as well as football fans watching Euro 2020 matches.
Inspector Paul Rogerson, from Cambridgeshire Constabulary, said: “We will have officers on patrol across the city over the weekend visiting the green spaces throughout the day and evening as we do most weekends.
“We are working with Cambridge City Council and partners to encourage people to enjoy the green spaces while continuing to adhere to the latest Covid guidelines.”
The Eastern Region Section of the Showmen’s Guild of Great Britain and Cambridge City Council announced in April that Midsummer Fair, which had been scheduled to take place on Midsummer Common from June 23 to 28, would be postponed.
But the council has been made aware that a significant number of people may travel to the city on Friday and Saturday evening despite no official event being planned. A gathering of some hundreds of people could take place as it did last year.
Groups of students marking the end of their exam period on Sunday could also lead to large numbers of people on Jesus Green as in the past.
This weekend will also see pubs and hospitality venues welcoming people to watch Euro 2020 matches.
Robert Pollock, chief executive of city council, said: “We’re planning for a particularly busy weekend in our open spaces and in the city centre. I strongly encourage everyone to think in advance about where they want to go and when, and to come in at quieter times where they can. Residents should plan for a busy weekend.
“We want everyone to enjoy our parks and open spaces and all that Cambridge has to offer but coronavirus cases are rising again and many residents have not yet had their vaccinations.
“We all need to think twice before attending large gatherings and remember the rules of no more than groups of 30 outside and six inside.”
The council is reminding everyone thinking of visiting parks, open spaces or hospitality venues to remember the national guidance, adhere to social distancing, wear a face covering as required and take precautions to keep safe.
Coronavirus transmission rates are increasing in Cambridge with around 62 cases per 100,000 - more than double the previous week.
The city has also been in the top 10 lowest vaccinated areas in the UK with only 53 per cent of the population having their first dose and 32 per cent a second dose.
Everyone over the age of 18 is strongly encouraged to book their vaccinations now and help to reduce risk of community transmission.
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