Protesters took to the piazza in front of York Minster to campaign against the restrictions designed to reduce the spread of coronavirus.
A small group unfurled a banner saying, ‘No more fake science’.
A man with a megaphone told passing residents and visitors: “They’re just making it up as they go along.
“We’re not saying this virus doesn’t exist. What we’re saying is, it’s not as dangerous as they’re making it out to be.”
It was a peaceful event and didn’t draw much of a crowd.
The protest was one of several happening around the country today, from Brighton to Hull.
It came ahead of a York Freedom Picnic, due to be held by the river in the city from 2pm to 6pm a week tomorrow (Sunday, 23 May).
Accompanied by the band Jam For Freedom, this event is organised by Wake Up Yorkshire, and is expected to feature a number of speakers.
Its website says: “We are united by our concern of the way a coronavirus is being used to push detrimental agendas that harm our health, freedoms and way of life.
“One thing most people agree with, is that we must protect the rights and freedoms for our communities and future generations; we must not relinquish our liberties and rights in exchange for a little temporary safety.”