MORE than 20 students are facing fines of £200 each - and possible expulsion from their university - after flouting lockdown laws by partying in the early hours.

Police discovered party after receiving reports of loud music coming from a room at the Catherine House student accommodation complex in Portsmouth.

All 25 students at the party were reported for summons and will now face £200 fixed penalty notices.

READ MORE

Professor Graham Galbraith, the University of Portsmouth's vice-chancellor, said: "I am incredibly disappointed by this behaviour by our students.

"It is totally unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

"These students who have broken the law, and put themselves and others in danger, must now face the consequences of their irresponsible actions.

“Their actions undermine the positive actions of the majority of students who are, for their own and others' health and safety, abiding by the very clear rules.

"In addition to fines issued by the police, they now face the prospect of permanent exclusion from the university."

The party at Stanhope Road, Portsmouth, was discovered at 2.50am yesterday.

Inspector Marcus Kennedy, of the Portsmouth Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “We have a good relationship with students in the city through our close links with our partners at the University of Portsmouth.

"It’s disappointing to hear about a students' party taking place.

“The people attending this party were putting themselves and their loved ones at risk from the virus. It’s actions like this that place increased and unnecessary pressure on the NHS.

"Anyone who does not follow the regulations faces a fixed penalty notice. The minimum fine relating to parties of 15 people or more is due to increase to £800 following an announcement by the government."

Under current lockdown restrictions, it is illegal to meet indoors with anyone not in your own household or support bubble.

Last week, Home Secretary Priti Patel announced fines for indoor gatherings would be increasing in a bid to reduce the number of people breaking Covid-19 rules.

Currently anyone attending an illegal indoor gathering faces a £200 fine, or £100 if paid early enough.