POLICE and NHS workers have admitted staff breached social distancing rules during a “clap for carers” event outside a Fife hospital.

Dozens of Police Scotland officers joined health workers at Victoria Hospital for the weekly tribute to frontline workers.

Footage posted online appeared to show local members of the public joining the crowds which gathered in the car park.

Firefighters also attended the event, with two fire engines and up to a dozen police vehicles seen putting their lights on for the 8pm event.

Glenrothes Police tweeted: "Big thanks to all the NHS workers across the UK from all the Emergency Services who came together tonight at Victoria Hospital to show our appreciation. #OurNHS #COVID19."

However, those who took part were soon criticised for not adhering to government lockdown rules, which prohibit gatherings of large groups and state people must stay two metres apart.

On Twitter user complained: "So much for public gatherings of more than two people currently being banned. I’m pretty certain these lockdown rules apply to everyone?”

Another posted: "This is disgraceful. I can't believe the stupidity of clapping for the NHS without social distance and then compounding the stupidity by posting photographs!

"I will be saving these photos to show to any police officer who uses current legislation to stop me doing something.”

The outcry came as London police were condemned for standing on a crowded Westminster Bridge during a "clap for carers" event.

READ MORE: Westminster Bridge crowds flout social distancing rules as police watch on

Another social media user was less scathing about the Scottish incident. He tweeted: "My wife works at the Vic and was there last night. She says she hadn’t seen such grins on her colleagues’ faces for weeks.

"The event took place after a shift change, so folk in civilian clothing are staff going home. I think there are too many haters. See it for what it is."

NHS and police officials recognised staff had been caught up in the moment.

The NHS Fife spokesperson said: “We appreciate all of the incredible support that has been shown to the NHS and key workers – including last night’s display by the emergency services in Fife as part of the national #clapforcarers movement.

“A show of support on that scale and of that nature at our sites is unprecedented in the history of NHS Fife and our staff were humbled and moved by this gesture.

“A small number of our staff caught up in the moment, went outside to mark the moment when the nation comes together each Thursday at 8pm, to express their gratitude to the Emergency Services for this show of solidarity.

“We do however, recognise that our staff are ambassadors for the NHS and must abide by the social distancing guidelines that have been put in place across the UK to slow the spread, save lives and protect the communities we serve from the virus.”

Chief Inspector Tom Brown, Local Area Commander for Central Division, Fife, said: "This event was arranged with the best intentions to provide visibility and recognition to all staff who are caring for us during this difficult time in line with the national #clapforcarers campaign.

“Unfortunately during this event there were breaches of social distancing guidelines. Advice was given to those taking part about the importance of social distancing to prevent future breaches and no further action was required."

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