People Ignore Social Distancing Rule To Clap For Carers On Westminster Bridge

Video footage has emerged of people ignoring the two-metre social distancing rules set out by the government to take part in Clap For Carers on London's Westminster Bridge last night (16 April).

The footage shows a huge crowd, including police officers and parents with children, gathered in the English capital to applaud front line workers,.

Every Thursday, people up and down the nation are taking to their doors/balconies/windows to cheer on the NHS and pay tribute in the only way they can to front line staff who are battling against the pandemic.

And while it's a lovely gesture of appreciation, people have criticised those involved in certain places for putting each other at risk, and therefore potentially placing further strain on the NHS.

The police were seen standing with groups of colleagues and members of the public, although fines have been handed out to people around the UK for having gatherings of more than two.

PA

But the video above shows that while the majority of people have been strictly adhering to the government's guidelines, and isolating away from friends and family, some are still ignoring the rules.

The video has sparked outrage among those who have stayed at home - but the actions of those on London Bridge has also shocked doctors, who have shared their thoughts on social media.

Dr Damir Rafi, who filmed the video, posted on Twitter, writing: "I'm a doctor working at the hospital that's right there. And yes, I was also somewhat perplexed by the lack of social distancing."

He then added a screenshot of a Facebook post that he had previously used to speak out about the subject:

Dr Sophie Cook, whose bio says she is a 'mental healthy key worker', commented: "One person sat on the beach, told to stay at home. Massive crowd at what looks like a police parade on Westminster Bridge, clap louder, oh and here's a fly past." The tweet was accompanied by a 'face palm' emoji.

Another doctor, who works at a hospital in London, commented: "Seeing masses yesterday on Westminster bridge clapping together, without distancing including police. I think it is an important gesture but a little ironic if in a large group."

The UK is currently under lockdown as a result of the coronavirus pandemic - this has been extended for at least another three weeks, as the NHS and other front line workers try to contain the virus.

Topics: UK News, Coronavirus

Amelia Ward

Amelia is a journalist at LADbible. After studying journalism at Liverpool John Moores and Salford Uni (don't ask), she went into PR and then the world of music. After a few years working on festivals and events, she went back to her roots. In her spare time, Amelia likes music, Liverpool FC, and spending good, quality time with her cat, Paul. You can contact Amelia at [email protected].

@ameliasward