Kneecap may be dropped from lineup in Manchester park over 'safety concerns'

The Irish hip-hop band Kneecap may be dropped from the lineup at Wythenshawe Park, Manchester, where they are due to support Fontaines DC in August.

- Hannah Al-Othman

It is understood that talks are taking place between Manchester city council, which runs the park, and the concert's promoter about whether the band should be pulled, apparently over "safety concerns".

The local authority is being tight-lipped about the discussions, but it said it was speaking to "key stakeholders" to ensure "the event can take place safely".

The gig is due to take place on 15 August, with the Leeds-based band English Teacher also on the lineup. A similar concert last weekend, where Kneecap supported Fontaines DC in Finsbury Park, London, passed without incident.

A Manchester city council spokesperson said: "As with any major event being held in one of our parks, we are in regular discussions with the key stakeholders involved to ensure the event concerned can take place safely and effectively."