Rave Up with Arielle Free

[Jono]

BBC Radio 1 has defended its decision not to allow sports jerseys at the Big Weekend music festival in Londonderry.

The three-day pop event, which begins in Derry tomorrow, has a strict clothes policy for the 37,500 music fans expected at the series of gigs.

Among the headline acts are Bruno Mars, Calvin Harris and Olly Murs.

The event will be broadcast across a number of BBC radio and TV platforms over the weekend.

'Inclusive environment'

On its official website, concert-goers are told: "Please don't bring sporting tops - entry will be refused to those wearing football shirts, GAA jerseys and similar clothing.

"Golf umbrellas, flags, portable chairs and a range of other items are also not permitted."

Explaining the policy, a BBC Radio 1 spokesperson said the aim was to ensure that the music event was as inclusive as possible.

The spokesperson said: "Radio 1's Big Weekend is a music event.

"Our terms and conditions, which have been developed in discussion with local partners, are intended to create a safe and inclusive environment for everyone attending."

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/22642364

[Hammer]

Truly bizarre.

[fathomer90]

This is Derry. Walk around in a Celtic or Rangers shirt and there is a good chance there will be violence. Troubles still v close to surface. So no surprise in that context. Will be a request from the PSNI.