Disabled fans’ joy over chance to see Sir Tom
DISABLED music fans who were turned away from a Tom Jones concert are to see the performer again this year.
Glasgow Life, which runs the council’s sports and arts venues, has vowed to sort out the access problems which plagued Sir Tom’s 2016 gig at Kelvingrove bandstand.
Many wheelchair users complained they couldn’t see the performance as they had been positioned in areas behind people who were standing, obscuring the view.
After investigation, organisers discovered a temporary platform which was meant for wheelchair users hadn’t been installed as planned.
The area where they were positioned was at the back of the venue, and when other fans stood up, those in wheelchairs were unable to see.
Now they will be able to get accessible places for the Delilah singer’s show this summer as Glasgow Life plans to install the temporary platform in May.
Glasgow Life contacted those who were unhappy with their experience last year to offer them first dibs on tickets for this year’s show.
The arms-length council firm said they had hoped to install a permanent structure however it would not be completed in time for the bandstand’s first concerts this year.
In addition, the handling of disabled access and tickets for wheelchair users will be done through the Glasgow Life box office, as opposed to show promoters, to make sure venue managers have accurate information about disabled visitors attending each show.
Green councillor Nina Bak- er, who has been campaigning to ensure disabled music fans can have an uninterrupted view at the bandstand, said: “Last year’s Tom Jones concert was a disaster for wheelchair users, when their raised platform got forgotten.
“I really hope the organisers do the right thing this year and offer them free tickets and treat them as VIPs.
“I am sure that is what Sir Tom would want.”
Helene Fitzgerald, from Yorkhill, was one of those who could not see the concert last year due to the positioning of the disabled access. Helene, who uses a mobility scooter to get around, welcomed the new access platform but urged organisers to ensure it was in the correct position.
She said: “It’s ridiculous that everywhere else wheelchair users are at the front usually and they can always see. Last year was a disaster and I hope they put the platform somewhere more accessible for everyone now.”
A spokesman for Glasgow Life said: “The Kelvingrove Bandstand has become a highly sought after venue for all sorts of live entertainment and as befits one of Glasgow’s best loved arenas, it should deliver a great experience for every one of our customers.
“Glasgow Life took seriously the feedback we received and have engaged with people who were disappointed and have acted on their recommendations.
“We are delighted all of them have accepted the opportunity to return to the Kelvingrove Bandstand and enjoy what will be a great night in the company of Sir Tom Jones.”
Sir Tom, will take to the stage on August 5.