Noel Gallagher has delivered a heartfelt homage to fellow Mancunian Caroline Aherne as he reunited with brother Liam for a series of blockbuster gigs in their home city. Oasis are thrilling fans with five sold-out nights at Heaton Park, playing to a staggering 80,000-strong crowd each evening.
In a poignant moment last weekend, the legendary Britpop group honoured footballer Diogo Jota after his untimely passing at just 28 years old. During their inaugural Manchester performance, Noel took a moment to remember comedian, actress, writer and director Caroline.
The Oasis star dedicated the song “Half the World Away” to the beloved Royale Family actress, who passed away in 2016 at the age of 52, declaring: “This one is for Caroline.” Caroline’s battle with lung cancer became public knowledge in 2014. In a recent heartwarming revelation, it was disclosed that Noel had extended an incredible act of kindness towards the Teenage Cancer Trust, a cause very dear to him.
The charity’s website details its mission to provide “specialised nurses, youth workers and hospital units in the NHS, so young people have dedicated staff and facilities to support them throughout treatment”.
Rumours are swirling that Noel is poised to make a substantial contribution to the charity from the proceeds of Oasis’ global tour.
As Oasis aficionados flock to Manchester, the city is basking in an unusual spell of glorious weather, defying the typically erratic conditions associated with outdoor events, as a heatwave graces the UK.
Manchester is bracing for scorching temperatures nearing 30 degrees this weekend, amidst the ongoing mini-heatwave. In anticipation, managers at Heaton Park are loosening their typical restrictions, urging fans to arrive equipped with water, sunscreen, and hats for protection against the fierce sun.
Standard regulations firmly restrict food and beverage entry at the venue, but attendees will be allowed to bring a collapsible 500ml water bottle instead. They can refill it at designated stations within the park, as well as avail themselves of drinks from the fully stocked bars offering an array of alcoholic and non-alcoholic refreshments. Fans are also encouraged to don sun cream and, ideally, a hat in efforts to fend off sunburn and sunstroke.
Additional safety measures include three welfare tents equipped with medical aid – two flanking the left side of the stage and another positioned near the merchandise stand and bar.
Nevertheless, sombre images from within these tents have illustrated just how seriously preparations are being taken amid the potentially dangerous heat.