Police are urging people not to take part in mass gatherings set to take place in Plymouth on Saturday in protest against the ongoing lockdown regulations.
Two mass gatherings have been organised in Plymouth by The UK Freedom Movement. They are set to take place in two Plymouth parks, according to the flyers that have circulated on social media.
The UK Freedom Movement is inviting people to locations across the country at 12pm on Saturday, May 16.
The political organisation is campaigning against what they describe as an "unlawful" lockdown and the current coronavirus legislation, as well as "the new normal".
Gatherings are set to take place at different locations around the country, including London, Southampton, Nottingham, Sheffield, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Plymouth and Barnstaple.
Flyers for the events say: "We say no to the coronavirus bill, no to mandatory vaccines, no to the new normal and no to the unlawful lockdown. Bring a picnic, some music and let's have some fun and say yes to life."
The flyers have been circulating on social media but police are urging people not to take part.
An one city councillor has branded organisers "reckless morons".
A spokesman for Devon and Cornwall Police said: “Police have been made aware of a planned ‘mass gathering’ events in areas across Devon and Cornwall, which are circulating locally on social media.
“Officers are reminding individuals of their responsibilities in adhering to current government advice to stop the infection rate from rising. The government has prohibited by law all public gatherings of more than two people, except for reasons set out in the following guidance.
“It is vital that everyone continues to act responsibly in public places, as the large majority have done. In keeping the coronavirus under control, we are protecting the NHS and saving lives.
“Anyone not following the government regulations will be given advice around current social distancing measures and will be dispersed.
“We will continue to use discretion and to engage, explain and encourage. Where necessary and only as a last resort, our officers can issue fines, which the Government have increased to now start at £100.”
Devonport Councillor Kate Taylor, cabinet member for health and adult social care at Plymouth City Council shared a tweet expressing her outrage at the planned events.
The tweet said: "I don't want to advertise the image of the 'mass gathering' planned in Devonport & Central Parks on Saturday from the 'UK Freedom Movement', but do want to say that anyone who takes part is a reckless moron with no regard for people's lives and they should stay at home #COVID19.
"Saying 'no to the new normal' or 'no to the lockdown' is not saying 'yes to life"' It is actively putting your own life - and the life of others - at risk. It is a whole new level of stupidity and the people involved should be ashamed. Don't risk other peoples lives #COVID19."
Government guidance on mass gatherings remains unchanged since the lockdown began.
The current gov.uk advice says: "In line with the social distancing guidance it is advised that large gatherings should not take place.
"While the risks of transmitting the disease at mass gatherings are relatively low, these steps will also allow emergency services that would have been deployed for these events to be prioritised in alleviating pressure on public services."
The events are set to take place across the country on Saturday, May 16.
