Robbie Williams’ much-anticipated return to Manchester means thousands of fans will be flocking to the city until Saturday, giving police one of their biggest summer challenges.
The first concert from his Take the Crown tour took place yesterday and by the end of the weekend more than 200,000 fans are expected to have flooded in to Manchester to see the Angels man.
A large-scale policing operation is in place to ensure the events pass without incident with Chief Superintendent John O’Hare keen to stress the importance of safety at events of this magnitude.
He said: “We are delighted to be part of the team helping to host these events and we do want everyone to enjoy themselves.
“However, we really want people to enjoy these concerts for the right reasons and to stay safe both during the event and travelling to and from them.”
An alcohol cordon will be put in place by the police for each night of the concerts, which also stops gig-goers drinking on the Metrolink.
Chief Supt O’Hare added: “We simply want people to drink responsibly, enjoy the concert and ensure they don’t make themselves vulnerable through too much alcohol.
“The cordon will apply to the Metrolink. Similar events in the past have seen some people being prosecuted for drinking alcohol on the trams.”
Despite the problems they face over the four events, Chief Supt O’Hare is confident his officers will ensure the event can be enjoyed by everyone.
“The fact that Robbie can sell out four dates in quick succession in the same city demonstrates this is a big event for the city.
“There will be a large number of officers in and around the stadium on the night and I would always encourage anyone with any concerns or issues to speak to them.
“My officers are always very approachable and there to help in any way they can.”
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Picture courtesy of jeaneeem, with thanks.
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