Greater Manchester Police instruct Oasis fans to “remain vigilant” at Heaton Park shows
Greater Manchester Police have issued a warning to Oasis fans heading to their Heaton Park shows to “remain vigilant”.
The biggest cultural event of the decade in Manchester is only a day away as Oasis make their historic return to their hometown for the first of four shows at Heaton Park. They have sold 80,000 tickets for each show with 320,000 fans set to attend the string of concerts.
The northern city has already been swept up in Oasis mania in anticipation of the shows. Fans are flocking from around the world to attend, and those who make use of the city’s tram network will be greeted by Liam Gallagher’s for the next ten days at the Heaton Park stop.
However, this weekend, temperatures are set to sky-rocket to around 30C, and the relevant authorities are working hard to ensure the safety of those in attendance.
Greater Manchester Police’s assistant chief constable, Matt Boyle, said: “Our priority is to ensure everyone’s safety. We have worked closely with event organisers and partners to make sure the event is safe and enjoyable for those attending, whilst minimising any crime or antisocial behaviour impacts on local residents.”
Boyle confirmed that Greater Manchester Police “will have a large and highly visible policing operation in place in Heaton Park, the City Centre and on routes into and out of the venue to help people enjoy the event.”
The officer continued: “Our advice to fans attending is to enjoy yourselves but to remain vigilant, keep your belongings safe and report anything suspicious to police or security staff so we can act on it. Make sure you have planned your journey and are prepared for hot weather.”
Boyle’s comments come after promoters SJM warned fans about the high temperatures, stating, “With a very hot weather forecast on both Friday and Saturday, please stay hydrated, you will be permitted to bring a sealed bottle of water up to 500ml. This must be collapsible plastic.”
They also explained: “Solid plastic, metal etc containers will not be permitted on the grounds of safety. Bottles with broken seals will be emptied. There is free water to refill your bottle on site.”
Doors open for all four of the Heaton Park shows at 15:00 with music set to begin at 18:00 when Britpop four-piece Cast take to the stage. Then, an hour later, The Verve’s Richard Ashcroft will perform at 19:00, and Oasis will main event the concert at 20:15 with the curfew set for 22:30.
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