ROBBIE Williams’ ‘superfans’ have been ordered off-site at the Ricoh Arena ahead of tonight’s concert – under new security measures in the wake of the Manchester terrorist attack.
Some had arrived at the venue early yesterday morning in the hope of queuing for their favourite spots at the front of the stage.
Some had planned to sleep overnight, and had arrived with sleeping bags.
It is a familiar site at the Ricoh Arena, where Bruce Springsteen fans from across the world had arrived days before his two Ricoh concerts.
Some Robbie Williams’ fans have told us they were banned from queuing around the stadium overnight last night.
One said: “It wasn’t made clear to us we could not stay overnight and we had to find a hotel quickly. We hadn’t planned on getting a hotel.”
Sniffer dogs have also been out on site and security guards have pounced quickly on any bag left unattended.
Fans were allowed back on to site to queue this morning.
The former Take That singer will perform his Heavy Entertainment Show.
Gates open at 4.30pm and fans are being advised to arrive at the venue in good time with only essential items to allow for security searches.
Andy Gibb, managing director at the Ricoh Arena, said last week: “We want everyone to enjoy their time with us at the Ricoh Arena during the Robbie Williams Concert.
“We have a range of security measures in place and they have all been reviewed following the recent incidents around the country.
“We are sure that everybody will have a fantastic time on the night but we want everybody to feel as safe as possible whilst they are with us, and we would ask that visitors help us to help them by following the venue’s advice.”
The Ricoh Arena’s advice included:
· Do not queue before 10am on the day of the event, we will not be able to provide facilities on site and will be asking people to leave if they do come to site.
· Do not bring bags to the venue, this will delay entry because of the search regime in place.
· Do not bring liquids or food and drink as they will not be permitted into the venue.
· Listen to messages from stewards and the public address system.
· Co-operate with safety and security teams who are there to help you.
· Arrive in good time, gates open at 4.30pm, allowing for search and screening as necessary.
· Report anything you are concerned about to the safety & security teams.
