A MASS gathering is being planned in defiance of lockdown measures.
The UK Freedom Movement, which believes the lockdown measures are unlawful, is plotting to host large gatherings on Brighton beach and Bevendean Down on Saturday.
Eventgoers who want to flout lockdown rules are urged to bring a picnic, music, and “say yes to life”.
>> READ MORE: City leader responds to lockdown protest
Sussex Police are aware of the gathering, which is planned for midday, and will use their powers “if necessary”.
A poster widely circulated online states: “Join the UK Freedom Movement and be part of the largest mass gathering since the lockdown.
“We say no to the coronavirus bill. No to mandatory vaccines. No to the new normal and no to the unlawful lockdown.”
As part of the new regulations, public gatherings of more than two people who don’t live together are banned.
Exceptions include funerals attended by immediate family members or people working together who cannot work from home.
A Sussex Police spokesman said: “We are aware of a planned mass gathering in Brighton this Saturday.
“While, under normal circumstances, we fully support the right to protest peacefully; during the current pandemic this right is superseded by the right to life in line with the new public health regulations.
>> READ MORE: City leader responds to lockdown protest
“Our over-riding aim is to protect and keep people safe.
“We will continue our policing approach of engaging, explaining and encouraging and only as an absolute last resort will we enforce. We do not want to criminalise people unnecessarily; we appreciate the pressures that the public are facing, but we will use our powers if necessary.
“Anyone planning or promoting protests should be aware that if these activities result in protest activity, any participants may make themselves liable to police engagement and enforcement.”
The UK Freedom Movement describes itself as 'believing in freedom, equality and the sovereignty, structural integrity and democracy of the UK”.
- The coronavirus Sussex Crisis Fund has been set up to help those affected by the pandemic. The Argus’s charity and American Express have each donated £50,000 to kick-start the appeal. Grants will usually be for up to £5,000. More information is available at www.sussexgiving. org.uk/apply. To donate visit www.totalgiving.co.uk/appeal/sussexcrisisfund
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