BTP calls on all Stone Roses fans to have Good Times

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The Stone Roses are coming back to Manchester and British Transport Police is calling on all concert goers to be prepared to make sure they have good times!

The Mancunian super group are set to play three dates at Heaton Park on 29 and 30 June and 1 July, with fans expected to travel to the city from all over the country.

And while BTP officers want everyone to have a good time they are warning that all attendees should make sure they have their travel plans worked out well in advance.

Inspector Lorna McEwan, who has been in charge for planning the weekend’s operation for BTP, said: “We want everyone who is coming to Manchester for the gigs to have a great time.

“But everyone should be aware that whilst there are plenty of options for people to get to Manchester, the return journey may not be as smooth.

“Transport will be available to get people back into Manchester city centre from Heaton Park, but there will be limited trains running from the city centre after the concerts – particularly on Saturday and Sunday.

“Our advice is simple, plan well in advance, know how you are going to get to the concerts and, more importantly, know exactly how you are going to get home.”

BTP is also warning those heading to the concerts to behave whilst in and around the rail network.

Insp McEwan added: “We don’t want people to act in any way which is anti-social or causes a nuisance for others on the network.

"Thankfully people who tend to behave in this way are in the minority and the majority of those at the concerts will be there just to have a good time and we are not intending to criminalise everyone at the gigs.

“However, we are expecting a lot of people to be using the railways to travel to the city and this will mean the stations will be busier than we would normally expect.

“We have good plans in place to deal with this and have been working with Network Rail and the train operating companies to ensure everyone is prepared for the influx of people.

“We will do all we can to keep the stations operating safely and to keep rail passengers and staff safe, but we will need the co-operation of the public to help achieve this.

“If you are coming to Manchester for the concerts please ensure you arrive in plenty of time and show consideration for other rail users.”

“We have been in close liaison with Greater Manchester Police in the run up to these events and officers will adopt a joined up approach to ensure the city centre and all stations are closely monitored and effectively policed.

“All officers will be working with the same aim in mind – to ensure all Stone Roses fans and other rail users can enjoy themselves safely and responsibly.”