Why beer fans will not be able to raise a glass at festival

THEY are raucous occasions, celebrated and toasted in cities all over the world.

But plans for a Munich-style beer festival in the heart of Glasgow have fallen flat after police raised fears over public order.

Licensing chiefs in the city have refused to grant the Oktoberfest an alcohol licence following police complaints which included details of violence, drunkenness and disorder at the event last year.

Costing around £35 for a seat, two large beers and a snack, and up to £800 for a corporate table ticket, Oktoberfest was scheduled to take place in Blythswood Square between October 19 and 23.

As well as serving beer, the event was to include German food and oompah bands in a tent with a capacity for 1,800 people.

But Police Scotland raised concerns about the location and alerted the city’s licensing board to a string of major failings at last year’s Glasgow Green event. A

‘A number of fights broke out’

statement on behalf of Police Scotland Chief Constable Phil Gormley claimed the majority of 2,200 revellers at last year’s event were heavily under the influence of alcohol by 4.30pm.

The force said it warned staff about serving alcohol to intoxicated customers, adding: ‘The event continued, however, the atmosphere soon changed and a number of fights broke out. Approximately 25 persons were ejected by stewards for being too drunk.’

The complaints included details of a Dutch soldier who was arrested for fighting with other festival-goers after he fell off tables at the event.

An Oktoberfest spokesman said: ‘We are working on an alternative venue and that should be ready within the next 24 hours.

‘This was a shock but we realise the concerns about proximity to the city centre and will make an announcement which should clear up any confusion.’