Five men face fines of £10,000 each after a house party with dozens of attendees was broken up by police.

Up to 80 people were found at a property in South Street, Canterbury , at 12.30am on Saturday when police attended following reports of a noisy gathering.

When officers entered the house, they found between 60 and 80 people in the rooms and back garden of the property.

Officers engaged with those present and quickly dispersed all of those who were not residents of the house, pointing out the importance of complying with Government rules.

Five residents of the property, who are all aged 19 and 20, were then each issued with fixed penalty notices. They now each face a fine of £10,000 but can appeal it.

Assistant chief constable Claire Nix said: "The number of people our officers found attending this party was simply unacceptable and they had no option but to take enforcement action.

'We understand this is a difficult time...'

"Social gatherings, whether indoors or outdoors, are currently limited to six people, with further changes to the rules planned for later this week.

"Anyone who breaches the regulations is not only putting their own health at risk, but that of anyone they come into contact with, as well as their family and friends, who may be more vulnerable.

"Kent Police continues to use the approach of engaging, explaining and encouraging people to do the right thing, but blatant and serious violations of the rules such as this one will lead to enforcement action.

"We understand this is a difficult time for many people and that the vast majority are complying with the restrictions, but Covid-19 remains a real and deadly threat and everyone needs to take responsibility for preventing its spread and helping to save lives.'

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