GROUPS of youths flouted strict social distancing rules to hold a Bank Holiday party in a park.

Two groups, which had around 15 teenagers in each, were spotted breaking the two metre guidelines and drinking alcohol, according to homeowners in Ramsden Park, Billericay.

The groups, who appeared to join forces at one stage in the afternoon on Monday, were also seen playing football and play fighting.

Bryony Bywaters-Smith, who lives nearby, said pensioners are avoiding the park because of the groups.

She spoke of her anger at the youths after she witnessed the impact Covid-19 can have - with both her parents having suffered from the virus more than a month ago.

The 17-year-old, from Heath Road, Billericay, told the Echo how she had thought her dad, a postman, would not survive.

She said: “It’s so frustrating and so selfish.

“I used to be friends with some of them.

“I messaged them asking them to leave, and threatened to call the police. They obviously don’t care.

“Elderly people are now avoiding the park because of them.

“Their parents shouldn’t be allowing them out or dropping them off if they’re going to do this.

“It’s a children’s park with a playground inside and exercise equipment for kids.”

Ms Bywaters-Smith explained her family’s struggle to overcome the virus, adding: “I didn’t think my dad would make it.

“He couldn’t move.

“I had to call 111. My mum had it as well.

“It was a real struggle because I needed to look after them both. That was my main focus.

“I was doing all the cooking and cleaning while they were in bed.

“My sister is either away at her boyfriend’s or with work, she’s an air hostess. She’s rarely at home.

“It was horrible and really stressful.”

In Sunday’s coronavirus briefing, the Prime Minister Boris Johnson urged anyone who sees incidents like this to call the police, who can move people on, or fine them on the spot.

Essex Police confirmed the force was not called to the park.