Police says it is disappointed with thousands of Liverpool fans who filled the streets after their club won the Premier League amid fears of a second spike in coronavirus cases.

Merseyside Police Assistant Chief Constable Rob Carden said Merseyside had been ‘disproportionately affected’ by the coronavirus pandemic and its residents had a responsibility to prevent further cases.

Manchester City’s 2-1 defeat to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge handed Liverpool their first Premier League title.

Liverpool was crowned Premier League champions after 30years of hard waiting.

Supporters gathered outside Anfield and in the city centre to mark the occasion with singing, dancing and fireworks.

About 100 fans gathered outside the Main Stand at Anfield for when the final whistle blew on Thursday’s Chelsea v Manchester City match, securing Liverpool the title with seven games to spare.

Rob Carden “I would like to congratulate Liverpool FC on deservedly winning the Premier League title, and thank the thousands of Liverpool fans across Merseyside who celebrated at home, as they have for the previous games played behind closed doors.”

“The overwhelming majority of fans have recognised the fact that now is not the time to gather together to celebrate, and chose to mark the event safely. They are a credit to this city.”

“Unfortunately, as we have seen throughout the lockdown period, not everyone adhered to the regulations in place. Although the vast majority of celebrations were good natured, a large number of people chose to gather outside the stadium.”

“In the days ahead, we urge supporters to do the right thing and celebrate safely with members of your household and in your social bubble.”

“By doing this you keep yourself, your family, friends and neighbours safe.”

“As we all know, Merseyside has been disproportionately affected by the Covid-19 pandemic and we must all do what we can to prevent further cases and deaths in our communities,” Assistant Chief Constable Carden added.

“We understand people will feel jubilant that Liverpool has secured the league title for the first time in 30 years, and the time will come when fans can return to Anfield to applaud the team and to celebrate their achievement.”

“Please follow the advice of the players, the manager and the club by putting safety first. The club is encouraging fans to share their experiences of watching future games at home with the hashtag #LFCAtHome on social media, and we all look forward to sharing your experiences of celebrating safely.”

Fireworks went off as fans waved flags and sang: “We’ve gone and won the league.”

Within an hour of the result, thousands of fans had gathered outside the stadium, lighting red flares and singing football songs.

People, with children and dogs, continued to make their way across Stanley Park to get to the stadium.