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Coronavirus Kent: Anger as visitors flock to Whitstable again

17:26, 22 March 2020

updated: 14:42, 25 November 2020

There is mounting fury after visitors flocked to Whitstable for a second day in defiance of social distancing advice.

Despite widespread condemnation of crowds of drinkers gathering outside the Whitstable Oyster Company yesterday, the area was once again packed with visitors today.

Crowds at Whitstable. Picture by Alison Dilnutt (32165208)
Crowds at Whitstable. Picture by Alison Dilnutt (32165208)

Residents reported many of the offenders appear to be visitors from London.

Canterbury MP Rosie Duffield did not try to disguise her anger over the continued flouting of the Goverment's advice.

She tweeted: "This is NOT OKAY! This is NOT Social Distancing.For goodness sake, STOP IT!!

"This is a DEADLY virus - stop spreading it to my vulnerable constituents!!!"

Rosie Duffield. Picture: Suzanne Bold/The Labour Party (31317282)
Rosie Duffield. Picture: Suzanne Bold/The Labour Party (31317282)

The situation was highlighted by Whitstable resident Alison Dilnutt, who posted photos of the crowds.

No sign of social distancing Picture: Alison Dilnutt (32165634)
No sign of social distancing Picture: Alison Dilnutt (32165634)

She said: "Another rammed day in Whitstable. Overheard these: 'Where the hell do we get oysters?' 'Why are the queues so long?'

My favourite: 'It's OK, I just saw someone with a Costa,' 'Oh THANK GOD!'

"Please go home and stay there London."

The packed car park Picture Alison Dilnutt (32165632)
The packed car park Picture Alison Dilnutt (32165632)

It comes as the Prime Minister warned further restrictions could be put on people's movements unless they obey the safety advice issued amid the coronavirus outbreak.

Yesterday there was anger after huge crowds were pictured outside the Whitstable Oyster Company taking advantage of their takeaway alcohol service.

The company has now apologised, says it is closing until further notice and donating profits to an emergency coronavirus appeal.

Read more: All the latest news from Whitstable

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