With just 20 minutes before the start of their perfomance the Blackheart Orchestra performance at the Atkinson last night was cancelled due to concerns of emergancy vehicle access if needed because of the continued installation of the Christmas Tree.

Blackheart vened their anger on their Facebook page

We’re so deeply saddened and utterly angered that tonight’s concert was cancelled by Southport Atkinson Theatre due to Sefton Council who decided to erect a Christmas tree outside the theatre exactly when our show was scheduled to take place, thus creating a ‘health and safety’ problem whereby emergency services couldn’t get access to the theatre. So the gig was cancelled just 20 minutes before it started. The most astounding part of the story is that The Atkinson Theatre along with the Christmas decorations are BOTH owned, staffed and managed by Sefton Borough Council. We feel so sorry for everyone who travelled to see us from Newcastle, South Manchester, Preston, Wigan and many have booked hotels and taken holidays from work, please please we encourage you all to demand ALL your expenses from Sefton Council and NOT just your ticket refund. We will support you EVERY INCH of the way. Our fans are our most valuable assets without you there would be no music, and we REFUSE to see you exploited by this crazy and unnecessary fiasco.

Following claims that the installations of Southport’s Christmas Tree was the reason for the cancellation of a show at The Atkinson last night, the Council has issued the following statement.

“Southport’s Christmas Tree is installed, maintained and funded by the Southport Business Improvement District, not Sefton Council.

“We are aware the installation of the structure is a delicate and complex process and ask that efforts are made to ensure these works do not coincide or affect an event at The Atkinson.

“Unfortunately we were informed of this year’s installation at very short notice, at which point a music event had already been organised.

“We then sought assurances that all works would be carried out considerately to ensure no disruption to the performance and that all fire exits were kept clear.

“Sadly during the evening it became apparent that the BID’s contractors were not abiding by these pre-agreed safety requirements and we were left with little option but to ensure the safety of everyone within The Atkinson and postpone the event.

“The team at The Atkinson is disappointed that the event wasn’t able to go ahead as planned and has already compensated the band for their postponed performance. Full refunds are now being processed for ticket holders.”

It is getting like pass the parcel.

Blackheart blamed Sefton Council

Sefton Council blamed Southport BID

Southport BID now blaming the Atkinson

Originally Posted by editor

Sadly during the evening it became apparent that the BID’s contractors were not abiding by these pre-agreed safety requirements and we were left with little option but to ensure the safety of everyone within The Atkinson and postpone the event.

If this is the case then the contractors should foot the bill for the concerts cancellation.