A NUMBER of Oldham taxi drivers are breaching regulations to combat coronavirus by gathering and socialising near a secondary school.

The Oldham Times was informed of the activities of the taxi drivers by a resident near to Oasis Academy in Hollins Road.

The drivers, from different local taxi firms, are parking in Mill Gate near to the rear goods entrance to the school, where restricted parking for two hours is permitted.

The Oldham Times observed three men in one of the vehicles with a Z Cars logo on the door. After approaching the driver, we asked him if they were from the same household and he said they were not.

He was then asked if he was aware that what they were doing was against the Covid regulations. He just shrugged and said: "We're just talking."

We understand there has been a longstanding tendency for taxi drivers to congregate at that location.

An Oldham Council spokesman said: “Everyone needs to follow the Coronavirus guidance that has been put in place to stop the spread, stay safe and save lives.

“You cannot socialise with anyone who does not live in your house, unless they are part of your support bubble.

“Oldham Council Licensing Team will investigate this incident.”

The Oldham Times has forward images taken at the scene to the town hall's licensing department as requested by the authority.

No-one was available for comment at Z Cars.

The coronavirus regulations in Oldham are currently as follows: You can not socialise with anyone who does not live in your house (unless they are part of your support bubble). This means that the national “rule of Six” does not apply here in Oldham You must avoid using public transport, except for essential travel If you are able to work from home you should continue to do so When visiting shops, when on public transport or in other enclosed or crowded spaces you should wear a face covering. If you do not, you could face a £200 fine.

If you work in retail or hospitality, you must now wear a face covering at work.

Taxi drivers and passengers must now wear a face covering.

Wedding ceremonies and receptions, and civil partnerships, are now limited to 15 people. These people should be household members and close family only.

No more than 20 people can attend a funeral.

From Thursday 24 September, all pubs, bars and restaurants must close by 10pm and must operate table service only.

All pubs, bars and restaurants must also be Covid-19 secure. Covid-19 Restaurants are encouraged to seat people who make reservations in advance and will not accept bookings of more than six people per table. As the "rule of six" doesn’t apply in Oldham you must only visit a restaurant with members of your household or support bubble.

Schools, colleges and universities will remain open.