Hundreds of students breach lockdown rules during giant snowball fight in Leeds

Hundreds of students took part in the snowball fight
@42adam42/TikTok
Luke O'Reilly15 January 2021

Hundreds of students in Leeds broke lockdown rules to take part in a giant snowball fight.

It came as heavy snow caused “severe” problems for ambulance services in parts of northern England as they struggle to keep up with high demand.

The Met Office had put in place various yellow warnings across most of the UK for snow and ice which will last throughout Friday and until 9pm on Saturday.

Yorkshire Ambulance Service NHS Trust said the “hazardous” conditions meant it was taking longer for crews to reach patients and urged people to take extra care when out driving or walking.

However, this didn't stop hundreds of people from taking part in the snowball fight in Hyde Park in Leeds.

One 20-year old student defended the event as positive for "mental health".

Adam, who did not wish to give his second name, said students from various universities were involved and non-students also took part.

“I think a lot of people were just in the park anyway enjoying the snow and joined in,” he said.

“It was a very welcome relief… a welcome laugh that people needed.

“I know many students who are extremely depressed, and stressed with online exams and have had little support.

“Mental health is equally as important as physical health… so many young people and students really have nothing to keep them going at this point.”

He added that he understood complaints about the gathering, but felt the risks of transmitting coronavirus had been low.

However, many condemned the display, noting that Leeds General Infirmary is just a short distance from the park.

“I know this is a students area but anyone can catch this virus and this seems pretty disrespectful to all the hard work going on (at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust),” tweeted @Ant8Johnson8.

Large gatherings are banned under the current lockdown rules. People can only leave the home for a limited number of reasons, including shopping for food and exercise.

Rule breakers can be fined £200.

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