Rita Ora has apologized for breaking lockdown rules after she threw a party to celebrate her 30th birthday this weekend.
In a statement posted to her Instagram story, Ora said she thought the ‘spur of the moment decision’ to attend the party would be permissible as the UK is due to come out of lockdown this week.
The singer said she is deeply sorry for breaking the rules and understands it put people at risk.
“This was a serious and inexcusable error of judgment. Given the restrictions, I realize how irresponsible these actions were and I take full responsibility,” Ora said.
The Guardian reported that Ora has reportedly volunteered to pay a fine, which can be up to £10,000 (around $13,000) for anyone who organizes an illegal gathering.
The said party took place on Saturday at Casa Cruz restaurant in Notting Hill, London, where the Metropolitan police were called to reports of a potential breach of lockdown orders.
According to a statement, officers said they had carried out inquiries at the scene but found ‘no indication of any offense being committed at the time’.
“Officers continue to assess the allegations and are liaising with the local authority regarding a potential breach of regulations at the premises. Inquiries continue,” the statement said.
It is not yet confirmed at this time whether any formal action has been taken over the breach.
“I feel particularly embarrassed knowing first-hand how hard people have worked to combat this terrible illness and being fully aware of the sacrifices that people and businesses have made to help keep us all safe,” Ora said. “Even though this won’t make it right, I want to sincerely apologize.”
The Sun first reported the story, sources to the publication said that the singer attended the party with more than 30 people.
“There were a number of guests, all dressed up very glamorously, and everyone entered the building through the back, with security watching the front to make sure no one else went in. It went on until the early hours,” a source said.
Since November 5, England has been in a national lockdown. The lockdown is set to be lifted this Wednesday, December 2, after which tier restrictions will come into force. London will be placed in Tier 2 which will allow restaurants and bars to re-open.