Sarah Everard vigils in Brighton and Worthing cancelled

Women’s groups in Brighton and Worthing had planned to stage events this evening.

But police forces across the country issued a statement to say such a vigil fall foul of the health emergency rules which ban large public gatherings.

Sussex Police said it understood the desire to raise awareness of women’s safety and to commemorate Ms Everard, but said there are “no exceptions” to the Covid-19 laws for demonstrations.

Brighton activists from the Anti-Harassment Club said it would have left anyone attending an event liable to fines, and organisers could have potentially faced a £10,000 fine.

Residents are commemorating the loss of Sarah Everard

The group had planned to meet at Valley Gardens at 6pm, while in Worthing activists planned to gather at the pier at the same time.

But both events have been called off.

Brighton activists said: “In light of the Sussex Police statement and cancellation of the Clapham Common Vigil we have been forced to take the heartbreaking decision to cancel the planned vigil in Brighton today.

“A collective of activists across Brighton have been working tirelessly to try and come to an agreement with the police on how we can go ahead today to remember Sarah.

“We have been told that Sussex Police will be heavily focusing on the enforcement part of their Covid-19 policy and will be present at Valley Gardens at 6pm to shut down any form of peaceful protest or vigil and actively issuing fines.

Police officers carry flowers brought by members of the public to the entrance of Great Chart Golf and Leisure in Ashford in Kent, after detectives confirmed that human remains found nearby are those of missing woman Sarah Everard. Picture date: Friday

“There will be no Covid-19 safety measures in place at any gathering tonight as this would make anyone identified as an organiser or in attendance liable for a £10,000 fine.

“It is important that we emphasise that it is Sussex Police, and only Sussex Police, who have stopped us from going forward."

Activists in Worthing said: “Unfortunately due to the most recent announcement this event must be postponed.

“Although the news is disappointing, we are committed to continue organising this event in the meantime, and intend for it to go ahead at a later date when restrictions are eased.”

Sarah Everard (inset) disappeared on March 3. Picture issued by Met Police

The groups’ reaction follows a statement from Sussex Police which said they would enforce the coronavirus rules.

Groups across the country had wanted to stage a Reclaim These Streets vigil in memory of Sarah Everard, 33, from South London, whose body was found in the countryside near Ashford this week.

A serving Metropolitan Police officer, Wayne Couzens, 48, of Deal in Kent, appeared before Westminster Magistrates’ Court today accused of her kidnap and murder.

A police van arrives at Westminster Magistrates' Court, in London, where serving police constable Wayne Couzens is to appear charged with murder and kidnapping related to the death of Sarah Everard. Picture date: Saturday March 13, 2021. PA Photo.

Sussex Police said: “We are making this statement following information received nationally that a number of vigils are being planned this weekend in memory of Sarah Everard.

“Such incidents are incredibly rare, yet shocking and heart breaking.

“We understand the strength of emotion and know that many of you will be processing what has happened, and may feel worried about your safety.

Sarah Everard

“The fear of violence, attack or abuse is not something that anyone should experience. Everyone should feel safe to walk our streets.

“We will do what it takes to protect our communities, to protect you and ensure you feel safe in the county you live in.

“Our message to you is if you feel unsafe when out, you’re harassed or if a crime is committed, then please report it to us. We will investigate and do all that we can to bring people to justice.

A woman leaves flowers at the bandstand on Clapham Common, after a body found hidden in woodland in Kent has been identified as that of 33-year-old Sarah Everard. A serving Metropolitan Police officer, who is aged in his 40s, remains in custody on

“We also recognise the desire to come together at this time, to mourn, show respect and make a statement on the issue of women’s safety.

“We remain, however, firmly in a public health emergency and the Covid-19 regulations continue to disallow large gatherings because of the continued, and very real, risks of the spread of the virus.

“There are no exceptions to this and we will continue to police as we have done throughout the pandemic – engaging, explaining and encouraging compliance with the regulations; enforcing where it is proportionate and necessary to do so.

“For those considering organising or attending a public vigil this weekend, we ask and encourage you to seek alternative ways to remember Sarah in accordance with these regulations.”