A BAR is being investigated over a social media video apparently showing large numbers of customers partying in its outdoor courtyard without regard to social distancing.

The footage shows a crowd of people hugging, dancing closely together, chanting and singing in and around a tented area behind Harvey’s Bar on Cow Lane, Burnley.

The Bolton News:

Now the borough council’s licensing department and police are investigating the video and whether any action needs to be taken for breach of strict coronavirus restrictions on people from more than one household gathering in force in the town.

The video, apparently taken on the night of Saturday August 8, suggests that many of the dozens of young people drinking and mingling may be Burnley Football Club fans.

The Bolton News:

The footage is circulating on social media and a copy has been sent to the Lancashire Telegraph claiming similar scenes are a weekly feature at the club.

It is understood Harvey’s has previously been cautioned by the council and police over loud music and failing to ensure social distancing between customers.

The Bolton News:

A Burnley Council spokesman said: “We’re aware of the claims being made via social media and are working with partners to investigate further and identify any appropriate action.”

A police spokesman said: “The council is the lead agency on this. We have been made aware but it is for the council to pursue any further actions where appropriate.”

The Bolton News:

Mark Jones posted on Facebook on July 17 on behalf of Harvey’s: “To all our Customers Re Covid-19. Under the directions from the Burnley Borough Council Licensing Officer and the Police, ‘music can no longer be played in the outside area to the rear of Harvey's’. This is to avoid the raising of voices and the potential risk of infection. Singing is not allowed and social distancing must be respected at all times. Thanking you for your co-operation. With this in mind the outside area will still be open with free entry all night on Sat.”

The Lancashire Telegraph has made several attempts to contact Harvey's for comment without success.

The Bolton News:

On July 30 Burnley was included in strict new coronavirus restrictions on gatherings in East Lancashire following a spike in cases across the region.
While under the tight new rules, the government says people can meet in public outdoor spaces in groups of no more than six people from two households, and that social distancing should be observed at all times with people you do not live with.

One local resident who contacted the Lancashire Telegraph said “This venue takes no regard to the Covid-19 guidance. The venue is called Harvey’s in Burnley. This has been happening weekly.”