Rule-breakers organise regular football matches in Deptford Park during lockdown

By Grainne Cuffe, Local Democracy Reporter

Groups of people have been playing organised football in Deptford Park on Sundays throughout the national lockdown.  

The rule-breaking, which involved two separate matches at the same time, has been ongoing as Covid-19 infection rates remain high in Lewisham, along with the rest of the capital.  

This week Covid-19 deaths in the UK reached 100,000.  

Though police have been called to the park, the players have yet to be caught in the act.  

Police have warned that if anyone is caught breaking lockdown rules in the park they will be fined.  

A spokesman for the Met Police said officers regularly patrol the area and respond to calls about people breaking the rules. 

“However, upon arrival at the location all have left. 

“Officers are still patrolling and if anyone should be caught playing in this area fines will be issued as per the policy on Covid-19,” he said.  

Lewisham Council said it was aware of the football and is working with the police.  

A spokesperson said: “We are aware of unauthorised organised football taking place at Deptford Park.  

“Our parks patrol are monitoring a number of locations where there are clear breaches of the current Covid restrictions and they continue to liaise with the police who have the relevant powers to enforce the law. 

“We have also advised park users that if they see any breaches of the Covid restrictions, to report these directly to the police.  

Our enforcement teams will be supporting our Parks Patrol teams in their work to keep residents safe.”