Piers Corbyn charged following illegal anti-coronavirus demonstration in Sheffield

Corbyn, 73, the brother of former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, has been charged in connection to the pre-planned illegal ‘anti-mask’ gathering which took place in the Peace Gardens on Saturday.

Corbyn, of East Street, London, has been charged with three offences under the Health Protection (Coronavirus) Regulations 2020.

It is alleged that Corbyn arranged and facilitated, then participated in, a gathering of more than 30 people on Saturday 5 September. He is also accused of failing to wear a face covering in a required area.

Corbyn has been bailed to appear at Sheffield Magistrates' Court in November.

A 44-year-old man from the Reading area who was arrested on suspicion of violent disorder at the gathering has been released on bail.

Saturday's protest led to significant disruption for shoppers and members of the public in the city centre, and four SYP officers were assaulted and left with minor injuries.

A force spokesman said: “Coronavirus remains a deadly disease. South Yorkshire Police officers will remain on the front line to protect our communities during this pandemic, and ensure the laws in place to prevent its spread are respected.”

Around 300 people attended the demonstration which called for an end to nationwide lockdowns and to the enforcement of mandatory mask wearing.

Corbyn has taken part in a number of anti-coronavirus demonstrations around the country during lockdown.