Kent police ready to deal with whatever comes their way as lockdown lifts

2 July 2020

Kent Police Federation said officers are ‘ready and able’ to deal with any drunken behaviour when pubs and restaurants in the county re-open this weekend.

The decision to allow people back into the night-time economy has been criticised as being too early while others say the grand re-opening should have taken place gradually or in mid-week to prevent a mad rush to the bar.

Hospitals have been warned to prepare for ‘New Year’s Eve’ level of cases while the national Police Federation says the grand re-opening following COVID-19 restrictions could see a ‘drunken circus full of clowns’ in A&E.

Kent Police Federation Chairman Neil Mennie told BBC Radio Kent the Federation would have preferred to have seen a mid-week reopening but that officers are ready for whatever the weekend brings.

“We are well prepared, and we have been anticipating this day for some time,” he said.

“I’ve seen the force’s plans, and I think officers are ready and able to respond to incidents should they happen.

“We believe the opening should have happened gradually in mid-week to avoid this feeling of a starting pistol going off.”

The public has a big part to play in ensuring everyone is safe too, he warned, and he has urged revellers not to put themselves into situations where their safety could be at risk.

“Even on New Year’s Eve, we wouldn’t be present at every location as we don’t have the resources – that’s why it’s critical the public and licensees help; it means we can ensure resources are allocated correctly in the right places.

“It’s easy to get a sense this is the end of the pandemic - it isn’t, and we could end up going backwards.

“The weather is not particularly favourable, which may pay dividends. Hopefully, the public will help us by steering clear of incidents and environments which might put them in danger.

“The vast majority of the people of Kent are sensible, and it’s absolutely acceptable for them to enjoy themselves, see their families and have a drink.

“We’re concerned with the minority who spoil that, but I really hope we have a peaceful weekend.”

Officers will have PPE to protect themselves from the increased risks of having to deal with more members of the public being out and about, Neil added.

“Protecting our officers is one of our priorities,” he said. “And members of the public shouldn’t be surprised to see them wearing masks and PPE.

“Officers will go in where angels fear to tread. They are brave and confident and will continue to do their duty.”