Police called to Manchester Pride after people 'crushed' outside 'full capacity' stage

Police were drafted in to Manchester Pride after people reported being 'crushed' outside the entrance to the main Village Stage on Friday evening (August 23).

Huge crowds of people were seen filling area outside the stage on Sackville Street ahead of Jessie J's anticipated performance. Reporters at the scene said some attendees were seen 'arguing' with officers.

Pictures taken from outside the venue show the large crowds attempting to access the stage area which signs indicated had hit full capacity.

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One attendee, who asked to remain anonymous, said barriers had fallen down as swathes of people attempted to push their way through the gates before police were called in.

"I am stuck in the queue to get to the main stage," they said. "They're at capacity and people were going in couple by couple. Then the gates opened and people were pushing forwards, the barriers were falling over, and now we are trapped."

Another attendee described it as 'absolute chaos' and said other ticket holders had attempted to access the stage through the exit.

Our reporter who was at the annual pride event, said there were 'ten police officers outside the main stage' and that people were seen 'arguing with officers' after being denied entry.

People also posted on social media, with @MrCraigAllen writing on X that attendees waiting outside the venue were being 'crushed' into the barriers.

"What an absolute diabolical failure," he added. "The main stage setup is unsafe and a hazard."

The incident happened shortly after Gok Wan's set, which concluded at around 9.45pm. Jessie J was set to headline the stage from 10.15pm.

The MEN has approached Manchester Pride for comment.