Man denies breaching covid regulations in Laxey

A man’s appeared in court, charged with organising an illegal gathering of swimmers in Laxey during lockdown.

Ian Christopher Kirk of Pinfold Hill in Lonan appeared before High Bailiff Jayne Hughes via a live video link from police headquarters.

The self-employed wellness coach pleaded not guilty to breaching the Island’s coronavirus regulations on Laxey Promenade on the morning of March 25.

Prosecutor Rebecca Cubbon told the hearing police had warned Mr Kirk on March 24 when they found him with up to 20 other people swimming in the sea off Laxey Beach, explaining the Covid-19 regulations to him.

However at 6.30am the next morning he was found with another group after organising the wellness session on social media, and was arrested.

The court heard the people who’d gathered unleashed abuse at officers as they took Mr Kirk into custody.

He refused to give his address to police, and in interview told them “I don’t understand, I do not consent, I forgive you for following orders”.

Mrs Hughes bailed the 34 year old in the sum of £500 and he’s next due to appear in court on April 27 at a pre-trial review hearing.