Leeds police break up secret party at restaurant disguised as 'business meeting'

A resident tipped off officers about the premises "sneaking people in" on Friday night,

Officers went to the unnamed restaurant and found 14 people having food and alcohol and claiming they were in a "business meeting".

The ban on gatherings during the pandemic includes an exception for gatherings that are “reasonably necessary” for work purposes - but only in lower tier areas where bars and restaurants are actually open.

Leeds City Council has been informed and "action will be taken", according to Chapeltown and Chapel Allerton police community support officer Matt Williamson.

He said on social media on Saturday: "Last night we were informed by a local resident about a restaurant sneaking people in to have a party.

"We attended where we found 14 people having a "business meeting" with food and alcohol being served.

"The Council are being informed and action will be taken

He added: "We are in Tier 3! This means bars, pubs and restaurants are closed even for "business meetings" or Christmas parties!

"It might be the festive period but we all must stick to the rules and maintain social distancing and the wearing of masks!"