A man who breached Covid-19 restrictions on gatherings by having a friend at his house has been jailed by magistrates for six weeks.

Nathan Alexander Orme, of Anagh Coar Road, Douglas, admitted the offence after being arrested at his home on January 25.

Prosecuting advocate James Robinson told the court how Orme, who is 28, received a warning about a Covid breach in April and a fixed penalty notice in relation to one in May.

Despite this, on January 25 at 7.30pm, police received an anonymous report about Orme being with another man at his home.

When officers arrived Orme answered the door and said that his friend, Liam Priestnal, was just collecting his phone charger.

Mr Priestnal, aged 25, of Lheannag Park, Douglas, appeared in court on February 2 and pleaded guilty to breaching rules on gatherings but not guilty to a charge of breaking rules on prohibition on movement.

A pre-trial review is due to be held for him on February 25 in relation to the not guilty plea.

Police entered the property and both men reiterated the claim that Mr Priestnal was there to collect his charger.

BUBBLE

Orme then claimed that his friend was part of his ’bubble’ despite that rule, which allows people to mix with other households, only applying in the UK and not in the Isle of Man.

When interviewed, Orme then claimed that Mr Priestnal had moved into his house during lockdown but police found none of his belongings in the house.

Police officers at the scene also reported that during the arrest, Orme had said to Mr Priestnal: ’Say you live with me.’

Defence advocate Stephen Wood said that there was no suggestion that either party had been off the island and that if Orme was released he would no longer pose a Covid risk.

’Your worships aren’t going to be impressed by his repeated offences,’ said Mr Wood.

’He has been in custody for 10 days now as a result of associating with a friend for a brief time.

’I appreciate why that has been imposed upon him.

’The Isle of Man, for understandable reasons, has taken a draconian approach and has had success in keeping this terrible illness off our shores.’

Magistrates chairman Lisa Horton told Orme: ’The Covid lockdown only works if everyone obeys the rules. Lockdowns cost society not only in terms of wealth but also health.

’You have numerous Covid breaches and a very poor record of complying with rules that are brought in to benefit everyone in society.’