To make sure you never miss out on your favourite NEW stories, we're happy to send you some reminders

Click 'OK' then 'Allow' to enable notifications

Maskless Protesters Shout 'Covid Is A Hoax' At London Hospital

Maskless Protesters Shout 'Covid Is A Hoax' At London Hospital

Dr Matthew Lee was heading home after a New Year's Eve shift when he was confronted by the large group

Dominic Smithers

Dominic Smithers

A group of maskless protesters gathered outside a London hospital, chanting 'Covid is a hoax' as the New Year rang in.

Dr Matthew Lee was confronted by the large group of Covid deniers as he headed home after finishing a late shift in A&E at St Thomas' Hospital.

Shocked by what he saw, the young medic posted a video of the scene to his Twitter account and called on people to see sense.

He said: "Worked the late A&E shift on New Year's Eve and came out to this.

"Hundreds of maskless, drunk people in huge groups shouting 'Covid is a hoax', literally outside the building where hundreds are sick and dying.

"Why do people still not realise the seriousness of this pandemic?"

Dr Lee then went on to say that while he was 'disgusted' by what he saw, he was 'mostly heartbroken'.

He said: "I wish people could see the amount of Covid-19 and death in hospitals, and the sacrifices that healthcare workers make.

Twitter

"This week alone has been so tough. Their ignorance is hurting others.

"I really wish people would keep themselves safe."

Since seeing the footage, others have shared their bemusement and anger at the actions of a small group in society.

Commenting on the post, one user said: "What is WRONG with people?!? I'm at home, getting through Covid rn, hoping I'm turning a corner. My oldest friend's sister has returned to hospital and is very ill. Another friends father died of it. JFC THESE PEOPLE MAKE ME ANGRY AND UPSET."

Another wrote: "I'm recovering from Covid-Pneumonia, was in hospital in Halifax, where it's a hot spot in W.York's, now home, still daily IV injections. Was on a respiratory ward I met 6 who died, despite this, people I know insist it's flu. The herd stupidity is unbelievable."

While a third added: "It is very sad to see a herd of delinquent subculture conspiracy theorists gathering outside St. Thomas's Hospital shouting 'Covid is a Hoax'. The NHS staff are doing an amazing job and at times under very stressful circumstances."

Twitter

This comes as the UK recorded another 53,285 cases of coronavirus in the 24 hours to 1 January, with a further 613 people having died.

Over New Year's police closed down a number of illegal raves that were taking place despite large public gatherings being banned - with several events shut down in the capital.

London is in Tier 4, which has the strictest restrictions, due to a severe rise in cases of the coronavirus over the past few weeks.

In the run up to New Year's Eve, healthcare workers begged people to stay home and follow the rules in an attempt to slow the spread of the virus and to stop hospitals becoming overwhelmed.

The Metropolitan Police also urged people to stay home, with Commander Paul Brogden, saying: "We are still dealing with the stark reality of fighting a deadly virus.

"The public are all too aware that tier 4 restrictions have been put in place to reduce the spread of the virus and to protect the NHS. I would urge everyone to exercise caution, listen to government advice and celebrate the new year in the comfort of their own homes, not the homes of family and friends."

Featured Image Credit: Twitter

Topics: Science, Coronavirus, Twitter, Health