Leeds 2003 success silences critics!

United Kingdom | | 26 August 2003

A capacity crowd of up to 50,000 people enjoyed each day of the festival, held at its new location in Bramham Park, near Wetherby, and not one toilet was burned, much to the dismay of local critics!

As previosly reported, 22 fans were injured when a crowd surged against a barrier in front of the stage on the first night (Friday), but the remainder of the festival proceeded peacefully, without the toilet-burning riots that have marred the previous two years. This success has waved a glorious two fingers in the faces of local critics, who have been determined to see an end to one of the best festivals in the world. West Yorkshire Police say they made 28 arrests and crime was down on previous years.

Predictions from the parish council in nearby Thorner that the village would be gridlocked by traffic going to and festival proved unfounded and while some of the music could be heard in the village, residents reported that the festival did not hinder their normal activities.

Headliners Blur brought the three-day event to a close on Sunday night with a set that included a mixture of greatest hits and material from their latest album, 'Think Tank'. Other highlights included Metallica, System Of A Down, Linkin Park, Blink 182, Black Rebel Motorcycle Club and The Darkness.

Festival organiser Melvin Benn hailed the 2003 festival as a resounding success, describing it as "absolutely excellent". He said: "I really couldn't be happier. There has been a real sense of how everyone really was just pleased it was going ahead and really enjoyed themselves."

Stay posted for our full reviews.

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