A disabled Oasis fan has criticised what he describes as a 'disgraceful' lack of accessible provision at the band's reunion gig in Manchester, claiming dozens of people on the viewing platform abandoned their wheelchairs and crutches as soon as the music started.
Mark Chapman, 32, who has Duchenne muscular dystrophy and has used a wheelchair since age nine, attended the concert at Heaton Park on 12 July. He said he was shocked to see many people he believed were not genuinely disabled standing and dancing for the entire two-hour set after initially using mobility aids. 'There were loads of people in wheelchairs and with crutches, but when Oasis came on they all jumped out and dropped their crutches,' he said.
Chapman, from Wilmslow, Cheshire, struggled to secure a space on the accessible platform and only managed to get in thanks to a helpful steward and a waiting list. He said some of his disabled friends were unable to attend at all, while resale platforms listed wheelchair tickets for over £600, despite carers' tickets being free when booked properly. 'It's really frustrating,' he added.
Carer Sam Priest, who was with Chapman, joked: 'We were saying Jesus Christ must have been on the platforms, there were so many miracles performed that night.' Despite the disappointment, Chapman said the experience was 'a dream come true'.
Ticketmaster stated that it verifies all accessible bookings and requires fans to submit their requirements within three weeks, otherwise tickets are cancelled. It also said it supports the Government's proposed resale cap to protect fans and ensure accessible tickets go to those in genuine need. Viagogo, which had listings for accessible tickets at £634 a pair, said it requires valid proof of disability before completing any transaction.
The Mirror has approached Live Nation for comment. The Oasis reunion gig at Heaton Park was the band's first performance together in 20 years, attracting 80,000 fans.
