Police gear up for Robbie Williams concerts this week

Greater Manchester Police is gearing up for one of the biggest series of pop concerts in recent years.

Robbie Williams is set to play four concerts at the Etihad Stadium this week, on Tuesday 18, Wednesday 19, Friday 21 and Saturday 22 June 2013.

Around 58,000 fans are expected to pass through the Etihad turnstiles each night for the sell-out concerts.

A policing operation will be in place to ensure all the events pass off peacefully.

Officers are keen to stress, however, that concert-goers should not make themselves vulnerable through too much drink.

Chief Superintendent John O'Hare, said: "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.

"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.

"As ever, there will be an alcohol cordon in place around the approach to the stadium so people will not be able to bring their own drink in with them.

"That also applies to the Metrolink. Similar events in the past have seen some people being prosecuted for drinking alcohol on the trams.

"We simply want people to drink responsibly, enjoy the concert and ensure they don't make themselves vulnerable through too much alcohol.

"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."