WINCHESTER residents have been left frustrated as young people were spotted ignoring social distancing rules to drink at the city’s Wetherspoons.

Large crowds of people were spotted queuing to get into The Old Gaolhouse yesterday evening (Thursday) breaking Government measures in place to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

It is believed that most of those outside the pub were A-Level students who had decided to go drinking after receiving their exam results.

A photo was taken outside the Jewry Street pub at 7.45pm and shows dozens of people lining up before being allowed to enter the pub.

Stephen Shakesheff, from Fulflood, who posted the picture said he did so to highlight blasé people have become in general despite resurgences in Europe and the imposition of localised lockdowns here in the UK.

The swim coach told the Chronicle: "It's not the numbers that are the worry so much, it's the lack of social distancing.

"There are some pubs and bars that have spent time and money on training etc to try to maintain the government guidelines and there are some that don't appear to be making an effort at all.

"The disparity is shocking. We need to adapt to the new normal now to try to avert another punishing lockdown in the future.

"Easing of lockdown restrictions seems to have led to a relation in personal responsibility and I fear we will pay for it."

The picture was posted on Facebook group Winchester Rants and has sparked outrage from some.

One person wrote: “None of these people seem to realise that they could be spreading the coved virus. As much as I dislike this government they ate trying to slow down and eventually stop the virus. Haven’t enough people already died?”

Another said: “Why is the licensee not sorting this out - when school and colleges re-open suggest they all attend compulsory citizenship and public health classes! Really cross on behalf of licensees who do take care of their community. Where is Winchester City Council Environmental Health staff - where are the councillors? So so cross!

Others said that the students should be allowed to celebrate their results.

“Well done kids, enjoy, just like any other year (following A level results). Just this one has a microscope on it for the exact reason that this year for you has been so tough and challenging for you. So enjoy, be safe,” one person posted.

And another wrote: “Have fun but also try to be careful too, wear your masks, keep your distance etc, my parents are in the vulnerable age group now, I hate to think of someone loosing a parent to Covid.”

Wetherspoons has been contacted for a comment.