Countdown to Towneley Live ... police issue safety advice

Burnley welcomes a host of chart-topping popstars to the town this weekend with a stellar line-up featuring N-Dubz, The Saturdays, Diversity, McFly and Scouting For Girls.

However the festival has come under criticism in recent days after prices were slashed to £20, angering those who had paid the full price of £46.50. Incorrect rumours had also been circulating this weekend that the festival had been cancelled.

However, through the Towneley Live Facebook page promoters told revellers there was no truth in the rumours and those who have paid full price would now be entitled to enter a special “Gold Area”.

Burnley resident Suzanne Heys said people still needed things clearing up though.

“I just think people want their questions answered. I paid for one of the full price tickets, which I’m not bothered about, but my mum has bought my son one of the cheaper ones now so I need to know if he’ll be able to come in the gold area with me? People just want clarification.

“I’m looking forward to what should be a great day of music though.”

Mr Harry Ashworth, director of Livewyre, said: “This will be a great event, we have sold thousands of tickets over the weekend and we are looking forward to this being the biggest event Burnley has seen for a long time.”

Meanwhile police have urged any festival goers to stay safe while attending the event.

Additional officers will be supporting stewards at the event and Neighbourhood Policing Teams will be on hand at the entrance of the park should anyone wish to report any issues.

Festival goers are advised not to leave personal property unattended, not to carry around large amounts of money and when parking make sure valuables are removed from display.

Insp. Mark Baines, of Burnley Police, said: “We expect Towneley Live to be a fantastic event and hopefully everyone will leave having had a really good day.

“Organisers have declared the arena a no drinking zone which means people can only drink alcohol in bars and pubs outside the venue. Anyone found with alcohol will have it confiscated and disposed of or they may be asked to leave the event.

“There are some simple things people can do to help them have a great time. Following our advice could prevent their day from being ruined and will also help us to ensure that crime remains low in Burnley.”

Tickets for Towneley Live can be purchased from www.hmvtickets.com and at local HMV stores while tickets are also available from Burnley Mechanics.