Party organiser fined after police break up event at University of Sheffield student accommodation

South Yorkshire Police revealed yesterday that nine £10,000 fines were issued in Sheffield over the weekend to people who had organised Halloween parties or other illegal gatherings in contravention of the Tier 3 coronavirus restrictions the city is currently under.

After it emerged today that one of these fines was issued to a student at Endcliffe Village student accommodation, a spokesperson for the university condemned the breach and urged all students to follow the coronavirus rules the Government had put in place.

They said: “It is imperative that students respect social distancing rules and all other restrictions to keep themselves and others safe and we strongly condemn any breaches of government regulations.

“Our University Security Services and South Yorkshire Police have been working very closely since the start of term and we have been clear and consistent with our messaging around student conduct and behaviour, regularly stressing to students that it is their social responsibility to adhere to government guidance. We thank the vast majority of our students for their ongoing efforts to do so and help stop the spread of Covid-19.

“We will continue to take action if we receive specific reports of anti-social behaviour, including reports of social distancing not being adhered to, as well as provide practical and emotional support to students who may be struggling at this time.”

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.