Police called to Moor Park after 19 men flout lockdown rules to play cricket

Dog walkers and those taking their daily permitted exercise were shocked to see the group casually playing cricket in Moor Park at around 5.30pm yesterday (Sunday, April 13).

But within 20 minutes of the incident being reported to police, officers had attended the park and ordered the group to disperse.

According to an officer with Lancashire Police's Tac Ops team, the men said they had flouted lockdown rules because they had been 'bored'.

The incident has been captured on camera by sports therapist Paul Winstanley.

Lancashire Police’s Tactical Ops team tweeted: "Ourselves and colleagues from Lancashire Specials attended a report of several males playing cricket on Moor Park, Preston.

"19 adult males who claimed to be ‘bored’ have been suitably advised regarding social distancing."

Government lockdown rules mean you cannot leave your home "without reasonable excuse", such as shopping for necessities, one form of exercise a day and travelling to and from work.

Social distancing measures have been in place since March and mean everyone must keep 2-metres distance to help prevent the spread of coronavirus.

Lancashire Police has been handed emergency powers to fine or arrest people breaking the lockdown guidance.

Those who ignore the tougher restrictions on movement could be hit with a £60 fine initially - reduced to £30 if paid within 14 days - and another for £120 for a second offence.

Those who do not pay could be taken to court and risk facing costs for unlimited fines.