Students say crowds, not alcohol should be police focus

STUDENTS have argued police should focus more on dispersing large groups, rather than seizing alcohol.

This is despite the fact that the Forest Recreation Ground - and much of the city - is covered by public space protection orders banning the consumption of alcohol in public spaces.

Business and Economics student at NTU Shaz Edward, 19, said: “I think it is a waste of resources to have police patrolling around.

“They are not focusing on dispersing the groups, but on the alcohol and I do not really see the point in that.

“They are spoiling everyone’s fun.”

Police officers were also guarding all three entrances of The Arboretum park.

Grace Jackson, studying Film and Production at NTU, 20, said: “I do not see the point in them being here.

“I do not mind them patrolling, but they should focus on dispersing the crowds, not banning people from drinking alcohol.

More students within groups of three said the focus should be on those who are breaking the rule of six.

Psychology student Mia Maz, 19, said: “In reality we are all just enjoying the sunshine and make the most out of it.”

Mason Stanley, a law student at NTU, 20, said: “It is understandable why police came here as there are larger groups mixing.

“I think this is what the problem is, not the alcohol.

“I do not really get the point in throwing away alcohol just for the sake of it.”

Assistant Chief Constable Steve Cooper said: “While we can of course understand people’s desire to want to be out in the sun and enjoying these mild temperatures we are currently experiencing, the government and our health colleagues remain extremely cautious and advise that people continue to minimise social contact.

“We would like to remind people that we are still only partly out of lockdown measures.

“Our officers will continue to engage with people to ensure they are still sticking to the rules. It is up to us all to keep to the measures.”