A WEEK after protesters flocked the Government's lockdown restrictions at War Memorial Park, they have returned for the second time to demonstrate.

It has been six weeks since Boris Johnson imposed social distancing restrictions and closed down schools, pubs and play parks.

One protester was seen actively protesting by waving her banner, 'Pro Human Rights' and 'Respect For the NHS' back and forth in the air from 2pm this afternoon.

A male protester was spotted circulating the park and confronting photographers and leader of the council, Ken Rhatigan.

Basingstoke Gazette: Cllr Ken Rhatigan said: "She is protesting as herself, not against the lockdown but against the infringement of civil liberties"Cllr Ken Rhatigan said: "She is protesting as herself, not against the lockdown but against the infringement of civil liberties"

Cllr Ken Rhatigan heard a commotion out of his office window and turned up to find out what was happening.

He spoke to one demonstrator and said: "She said I am protesting as myself, not against the lockdown but against the infringement of civil liberties. 

"I like you want those restrictions on daily life to be lifted as soon as possible. But currently that is not possible and therefore you cannot engage with people closely and you must protect your family and everyone else's family.

"I am quite happy if you are protesting on your own. If you're here too long the police will move you on.

"The lockdown is for the holistic good of the nation. Whether you like it or not, it is what is deemed to be applicable now, and it will change.

"She did not say when she will be back but she did say she would be back."

Basingstoke Gazette: A male protester confronted Cllr Rhatigan in the parkA male protester confronted Cllr Rhatigan in the park

A third demonstrator turned up an hour into the protest for fifteen minutes before all three invididuals decided to pack up and leave the park just before 4pm.

A spokesperson from Hampshire Constabulary said: "Our officers have been carrying out regular patrols in War Memorial Park and will continue to engage with people who are there, explaining the government’s guidelines and encouraging people to ensure they continue social distancing.

"Our priority remains reducing the spread of infection and protecting the NHS. So far residents in Basingstoke have been fantastic and we want to thank them all for this.

"We would encourage everyone to ensure they are continuing to follow the government guidance. We all have a part to play in reducing the spread of infection."