Government announces list of pilot events to test return of crowds
Pilot events will be testing attendees on entry and exit; utilising one-way systems as part of the venue layout; and employing the use of face coverings.
The government has unveiled a list of nine pilot events designed to test the safe return of crowds in 2021.
Venues participating in the programme will test specific settings – with researchers using the data to determine how sports games, gigs, shows, weddings, conferences and nightclubs could operate.
Pilot events will be testing attendees on entry and exit; utilising one-way systems as part of the venue layout; and employing the use of face coverings.
COVID-status certification will also be trialled as part of the pilot programme.
Researchers will assess particular risk factors throughout – such as the availability of alcohol; catering; and transportation to/from events.
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The full list of pilot events (and number of attendees permitted) is as follows:
16 April – Hot Water Comedy Club, Liverpool – 300 people (indoor seated)
18 April – FA Cup Semi-Final – Wembley – 4,000 people (outdoor seated)
17 April – 3 May – Snooker World Championships – Sheffield Crucible Theatre – up to 1,000 people a day (indoor seated)
23-25 April – Luna Outdoor Cinema, Liverpool – 1,000 people (outdoor seated)
24-25 April – Three 10k runs – Hatfield Park – 3,000 people and up to 3,000 spectators at each event (outdoor, mass participation run)
25 April – Carabao Cup Final, Wembley – 8,000 people (outdoor, seated)
28 April – Business Event, Liverpool – 1,000 people (indoor, seated and mixing)
30 April – Circus Nightclub, Liverpool – circa 3,000 people (indoor club night)
15 May – FA Cup Final, Wembley, London – 21,000 people (outdoor, seated)
Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said that stadiums needed the government to “find ways to get bums back on seats safely.”
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“This science-led pilot programme will be the springboard in getting the buzz back of live performance,” he stated.
“We’ve supported the sports and arts with unprecedented sums, but it’s now time to make that Great British Summer of live events a reality.”
Mark Bullingham, CEO of the FA, said he was “confident” that Wembley Stadium – which is set to host three of the pilot events – would provide a “safe environment.”
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“This is an important first step towards getting fans back, with the end goal of full stadia – hopefully by the end of the Men’s Euros,” he stated.
Most sports fixtures have been played behind closed doors since the new year.
On Bank Holiday Monday, Prime Minister Boris Johnson confirmed that the second stage of the roadmap would be proceeding as planned – with restrictions on gyms, non-essential retail and outdoor hospitality all set to be lifted from April 12.
A Christmas train in Wigan has been delivering donated toys galore
Thomas Melia
Yuletide wishes have come true as a donation of toys and goodies have been delivered via a Christmas train in Wigan, right in time for the big day.
The Amazon toy train, which is a new initiative running this festive season, is dropping off presents from now right up until Christmas day itself.
Already visiting Wigan earlier this month, the locomotive has its sites set on three more stops including London, Swansea and Scotland as it makes its journey across three nations.
In partnership with Multibank’s Brick-by-Brick project, the train hopes to provide and offer gifts to families in need across the UK with Wigan marking the closest stop off in Greater Manchester.
Credit: Lee Boswell (supplied)
All the toys that are being transported across the country in this Amazon-fronted train are featured on the company’s ‘Top Ten Toys 2024’ list.
Hatchimals, Screamerz and Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza were some of the exciting gifts found on the Christmas train in Wigan at the start of this month.
This lighthearted and fun-filled Christmas-themed project is kitted out with toys from top brands like Play-Doh and the brickmasters themselves, LEGO Star Wars.
So far, Multibank has helped over 400,000 families and provided three million essential items across their operations in England, Scotland and Wales since launching in 2022.
This collaborative local project doesn’t just operate at Christmastime either: Brick-to-Brick Multibank run all year round collecting surplus business requirements like furniture, hot water bottles and hygiene products to be used by those less fortunate.
The Christmas train in Wigan filled with Amazon’s top toys.The Wigan toy train features some well known brands.Credit: Supplied
This roster of children’s favourite companions and interactive games is inspired by the consumers themselves. Every toy is related to or the exact match of what Amazon customers have been searching for the most. A real Christmas list come true.
The list of the top toys isn’t extortionate either, offering customers some affordable and still as fascinating options with prices starting from £9.99.
Even old-school classics like Play-Doh have a spot on this wish list. This poses the really big question: where’s the adult version?
You may have finished your Christmas shopping not too long ago or might still be looking for inspiration, browse the top-ranked teddies and more HERE.
Floral tributes laid for Baby A after remains found in Salford, as police hunt ‘answers’
Daisy Jackson
Floral tributes have begun to pile up outside the Salford park where the remains of a baby were found earlier this week.
The child, who is being called Baby A, was discovered near Ashtons Field on Wednesday 20 November.
Their identity is not yet known, and police are trying to determine ‘who this baby could be, how long they have been here, and how they have sadly died’.
In an update shared last night, GMP said their investigation was continuing and the force will do ‘everything we can to get answers’.
They also shared images of cuddly toys, flowers and letters that have been left at the snowy scene by officers and by the local community.
In the latest update, GMP said: “Our investigation continues after the remains of a young baby were tragically found in Little Hulton yesterday.
“The thoughts of everyone at Greater Manchester Police are with Baby A, and we will do everything we can to get answers.
“We would like to thank the community for their tributes to Baby A and their support and compassion at this time. We are truly grateful.”
Floral tributes laid for Baby A after remains found in Salford. Credit: GMP
GMP are appealing for anyone with any information to come forward so they can ‘find answers for this baby’.
Chief Superintendent Neil Blackwood said: “Even the most minor detail could be crucial to our investigation. If you have seen anyone in the area over the last few days, or know who the parents could be, please call us as soon as you can.
“As soon as we are in a position to confirm further details about the circumstances, we will do so.
“Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 quoting log 1319 of 20/11/24. If you would prefer to remain anonymous, call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
The Manc -
6th April 2021 
