ONLY 15 people out of 58,000 tested positive for Covid after trials at large events such as the FA Cup final and the Brit Awards.
The Government-run trials to test whether venues can safely reopen this summer saw nine different events with live crowds – including a post-lockdown rave at a Liverpool warehouse.
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Out of the 58,000 people who attended the events, such as the World Snooker Championship, just 15 positive Covid cases have so far been recorded, sources told the Telegraph.
It’s understood some tested positive before the event, meaning they couldn’t attend, while some returned a positive test afterwards.
And further positive tests could emerge from the most recent events – such as the FA Cup final last weekend.
But the low rate of infection during the Events Research Programme has boosted hopes that large-scale events can be given the green light.
A final report making recommendations is set to be handed to Boris Johnson within days.
The main finding will be that large events can take place safely if mitigation measures, such as testing and improved ventilation, are used, according to the Telegraph.
A source told the newspaper that the study was “the most authoritative in the world” about how large events can safely be reopened.
The source said the recommendation would be that “you can move forward and you can reopen the events sector”.
“It would be proportionate to do so given the risk,” they added.
Some 6,000 partygoers rocked up at Bramley-Moore Dock at the start of May as part of a two-day event.
Nightlife promoter Circus hosted The First Dance in Liverpool where revellers did not have to wear masks or social distance for the first time since before lockdown began.
Ravers had to take a lateral flow test 24 hours before the event in order to release their e-ticket, and had to produce a negative result to gain entry.
They were then asked to take another test five days after the rave and submit the results.
‘GET BUMS BACK ON SEATS’
And a total of 21,000 supporters were able to attend the FA Cup final last weekend – albeit with a number of key differences to a normal matchday.
Fans had to take a Covid test two or three days prior to the match, then another lateral flow test on the day of the match.
Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said: “Our sports stars and great performers need us to find ways to get bums back on seats safely.
“This science-led pilot programme will be the springboard in getting the buzz back of live performance.
“We’ve supported the sports and arts with unprecedented sums, but it’s now time to make that Great British Summer of live events a reality.”
After the latest easing of lockdown on May 17, up to 10,000 fans or 25 percent of a stadium’s capacity will now be allowed to attend Premier League games.
Scientists have been looking to see whether crowds mixing and dancing indoors increases the risk of transmission of Covid.
Air quality and movement was also being monitored as part of a Loughborough University-led study to create clear guidance on how to design and operate non-domestic buildings to minimise risk.
