Police called to Sunderland seafront bar advertising 'pints to go'

But Northumbria Police said there was no sign the guidelines were not being obeyed.

The glorious weather saw the beach and promenade busy with people keen to take advantage of the relaxed rules on meeting with family members.

People had traveled from as far afield as Hartlepool and South Shields to make the most of the chance to get out of the house.

Crowds gathered on seats and tables outside Bar 88, part of the House of Zen restaurant, to enjoy a drink in then sunshine yesterday, Thursday, May 21.

Residents raised concerns about situation on social media, with fears that the guidance was not being observed.

The Government recently amended the rules to say it is permissible to meet with one person who is not a member of your own household but that you should still observe the two-metre social distancing rules.

A Northumbria Police spokeswoman confirmed officers had attended at Bar 88 but said they were satisfied the social distancing rules were being adhered to.

“We would ask everyone to continue to follow the modified regulations which came into force last week – they are in place to help protect us all from the spread of Coronavirus and ultimately to save lives,” she said.

Sunderland City Council has a public space protection order in place city wide which prevents the consumption of alcohol in a public place but only if it is causing or likely to cause anti-social behaviour.

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