FIVE people fined for hosting an illegal house party in Bournemouth in breach of Covid regulations have been blasted for putting lives at risk.

The occupants of the address in Cardigan Road, Winton, have been fined £200 each for flouting the Government’s rule of six by putting on the gathering which was attended by around 100 revellers.

BCP Council ward councillor Simon Bull backed the fines, stating the parties were not safe or appropriate.

Cllr Bull told the Daily Echo: “I think now people have been fined, hopefully this will deter students from having more parties, if it doesn’t then I’m not sure what can be done.

“I understand (throwing parties) is tempting but it is putting other people at risk.

“As they spread the virus amongst themselves and then come into contact with other people, they could be responsible for people getting very sick or even dying.”

Dorset Police was called to the address on Tuesday night following reports a large party was taking place. Officers attended and dispersed the group.

Evidence was subsequently reviewed and on Friday, officers from the local neighbourhood policing team visited the address alongside BCP Council officials. Bournemouth North Neighbourhood Inspector Paul Graham said: “We cannot tolerate people deliberately flouting the rules and putting other people’s lives in danger.

“We want to send out a clear message to anyone who is thinking of deliberately hosting parties that it will not be tolerated.

“Everyone has a social responsibility to stick within the rules to prevent the further spread of the virus.”

Meanwhile, Cllr Bull added: “I think the permanent residents of Winton are quite fed up with the noise from the students, although it is not all the students. People who throw open their houses to parties cause disruption to people who are trying to get on with their lives, regardless of the virus. They have work and children, put the virus on top of that and it is even more important students don’t create nuisance.”

The council said it fully supported the police considering the serious nature of the incident. A council spokesman added: “We hope all residents understand the gravity of the situation.”