Owner could face £10,000 fine after 30 people found at venue

Picture: Metropolitan Police

A police raid on a restaurant on Chiswick High Road discovered 30 people at a party in breach of Covid-19 regulations.

Officers went to the venue at 10.38pm this Friday night (29 January) after receiving reports of a large number of guests at the location. There was a number of people inside the property and the business was operating in breach of Covid-19 legislation. Those found on the premises were all from different households, without face coverings and with no social distancing measures in place.

Officers reported 15 individuals for consideration of fines of up to £200. The owner of the restaurant has been reported for consideration of a fine of up to £10,000. One individual was arrested for being drunk and disorderly.

The police have not named the restaurant that was raided but local sources have said that there was a significant police presence at the Piano Bar and Restaurant at this time. Reportedly a member of staff at the restaurant has denied the raid was connected with a party and said the police were there to investigate a theft. We have approached the Piano Bar and Restaurant for a comment.

Chief Superintendent Peter Gardner, BCU commander for the West Area BCU, said, “The UK has now passed 100,000 deaths due to COVID-19. Despite this, some people are ignoring the rules and choosing to prioritise their own entertainment over the health and safety of their fellow Londoners.

“The virus is airborne – this means that a single breath can infect another person. To be in an enclosed space and in extremely close proximity to other people who are outside of your household or support bubble is extremely risky and potentially life threatening.

“We implore people to think about the gravity of the situation that the UK finds itself in – by attending events and non-essential businesses where you are close to others, you are not only potentially exposing yourself to this horrible virus, you could threaten the lives of others by passing it on.

“The legislation around COVID is extremely clear, and is not up for debate. Please stay at home, stay safe, and protect each other and our NHS.”

February 2, 2021