Slane concert-goers reminded of drowning tragedy

Music fans at this weekend’s Slane concert were today urged to avoid a repeat of tragedies that marred the last time Oasis played at the castle.

Security has been tightened around the banks of the Boyne with Henry Mountcharles, the aristocrat behind some of Ireland’s greatest outdoor gigs, asking people to keep away from the dangerous river.

Two people drowned when the Manchester band played back-up to US rockers REM in 1995.

“This is a particularly poignant show. The last time Oasis played in Slane was in 1995 and we did have a problem, we had a tragedy in the river,” Mountcharles said.

“So I would like to emphasise to the general public ... the River Boyne is a very beautiful thing to look at but please, members of the public, do not go near the river.

“The Boyne is a dangerous river and we do not want any repeat of past events.

Bathing has been prohibited between Stackallen bridge and one kilometre downstream from Slane bridge, and fans have been reminded that there is no access to the castle from the river.

Warnings have also been issued on forged tickets and a list of dos and don’ts for Saturday’s event have also been detailed as finishing touches are put to the stage.

On the banned list are fold-up and inflatable chairs, umbrellas, spikes and glass, cans and alcohol.

Crowd-surfing is on the blacklist as is ’moshing’ by crowds at the front of the stage along with camping and early morning queues.

Weather wise Met Éireann are forecasting bright spells with a good deal of dry weather and with some good sunny spells developing.

Mountcharles added: “This weekend I hope that the rain in Slane falls mainly in Spain.”

A huge gathering of the Gallagher’s extended Irish family is expected to descend on Slane Castle for the concert.

Welcoming them with open arms, Mountcharles said: “A combination of the Prodigy and Oasis in the year 2009 is hard to beat and I’d like to officially declare Noel and Liam Gallagher honorary Slane people.”

He also thanked the people of Slane for giving the concert the go-ahead.

Gates open at 2pm on Saturday, with the first act, The Blizzards, taking to the stage at 3pm. Glasvegas are due to go on at 4pm ahead of Kasabian at 5.30pm and The Prodigy at 7pm. Oasis begin at 8.30pm although promoters MCD have warned the times may change.