Hundreds of people break lockdown rules to attend surprise gig by rapper AJ Tracey in Manchester
- Large crowds pictured in a Fallowfield park after gig was announced on Twitter
- Brit Award nominee AJ Tracey said he didn’t realise how many would show up
- Police arrived as large gatherings still against coronavirus regulations until June
A huge crowd of people descended on Platt Fields Park in Manchester after rapper AJ Tracey announced a surprise gig.
Large crowds were pictured in the Fallowfield park after the gig was announced on Twitter.
The Brit Award nominee wrote: ‘Next stop manny!
‘Come link me Platt Fields Car Park 4pm.’
Large crowds were pictured in the Fallowfield park after the gig was announced on Twitter
Despite a relaxation of the coronavirus regulations last week, it is still against the social distancing measures to have a large gathering
Public events such as sports events and gigs are only permitted no earlier than June 21
A witness told the Manchester Evening News there was a ‘standoff’ after the police arrived on the scene.
Despite a relaxation of the coronavirus regulations last week, it is still against the social distancing measures to have a large gathering.
Public events such as sports events and gigs are only permitted no earlier than June 21.
AJ Tracey added later that he ‘didn’t realise’ how many people would show up.
Someone wrote on Twitter: ‘Anyone who follows me will know I love AJ Tracey but this is absolute bulls*** and a massive slap in the face to those who’ve worked day and night trying to help those with the virus and to help stop the spread.’
The rapper entertained the crowd by throwing a basketball, singing and engaging with people.
An MEN reporter at the scene tweeted: ‘Looks like he’s leaving! There was some filming and singing and crowd interaction and that was about it.’
The rapper later apologised and said he would be back when ‘it is safe to do so’.
According to Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham, the organisers have been fined.
The West London rapper posted details of a surprise mini-tour, saying he planned to stop off at Birmingham at 12pm, Manchester at 4pm and finishing off in Bristol at 8pm.
A statement from Greater Manchester Police said: ‘We are aware of a large gathering at Platt Fields Park on Wilmslow Road Manchester. Officers are in attendance.’