TICKET TOUTS OFFERING NOTHING BUT A RAW DEAL

TICKETS sold for sports, music and theatre events via unauthorised websites cost on average 71% more than the face value of the ticket, according to new research1 from G4S Security Services (UK) (‘G4S’).  The UK’s leading events security firm warns that throughout the festival season, music fans will typically have to pay £72 more for tickets bought in the secondary market of online auction sites.  Sports fans and theatre goers face potential price hikes of 73% and 131% respectively if they opt to purchase tickets via the secondary market.

Despite these websites promoting themselves as offering bargains, analysis by G4S shows that consumers using them often pay significantly higher prices than those who purchase tickets through legitimate outlets.

The research by G4S reveals that music fans hoping to attend the Reading Festival this weekend now face ticket price hikes of up to 250%.  Weekend camping tickets to the event have a face value of £155 but on some secondary ticket websites they can be found being sold at prices in excess of £5302.

G4S is warning consumers who are contemplating purchasing tickets from unauthorised sources to check they are not fraudulent.

Mark Hamilton, Managing Director of G4S Events, said:- “The issue of the secondary ticket market is clearly of great concern, with the Government earlier this year reporting that online operators needed to “clean up their act”.

Purchasing tickets from unauthorised outlets really isn’t in the consumers’ best interests.  Tickets bought in this way are likely to be highly over-priced and could even be fraudulent.  There is anecdotal evidence to suggest that ticket touting left unchallenged may increase the risk of criminal activity and threaten the security of the event as a whole.”

Glastonbury saw a marked reduction in crime levels last year after the introduction of a rigorous online registration scheme designed to combat ticket touts.  The research carried out by G4S found no evidence of tickets being touted for Glastonbury whereas they were easily available for others such as the Reading Festival

Mark Hamilton added:- “Despite a lack of any legislation, the secondary market does seem to be evolving towards a more regulated approach. 

Certain websites, such as Viagogo, are starting to sign exclusive deals with performers and event organisers, positioning themselves as “official” ticket resellers.  Tickets bought from these outlets are guaranteed which is obviously something we support but there are still a vast number of sites that won’t offer consumers such peace of mind.”

PROTECT THE HUMAN WEEK: PARTY TIME FOR HUMAN RIGHTS

THROW a party and help to protect human rights. That’s the message from Amnesty International as preparations get under way for Protect The Human Week 2008, from 11 October 2008 to 17 October 2008.

Each year thousands of people all over the country organise events - big and small - to celebrate human rights and the work of Amnesty International. These events raise awareness and funds, with the money raised contributing directly to Amnesty's vital work.

Organising a party is simple. A kit is available by calling 020 7033 1682 or visiting amnesty.org.uk/protect and then it’s simply a case of finding a venue and some dedicated friends to help. This year, there will even be prizes for the most money raised and the most original party

Says Kate Allen, UK Director of Amnesty International:- “Parties are the perfect excuse to get friends, neighbours, colleagues or even complete strangers together in the name of human rights. In the past we’ve seen all kinds of events organised, including small gatherings as well as more elaborate music, comedy and quiz nights.”

This year’s Protect The Human Week comes just two months before the 60th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which set out for the first time the fundamental rights to which everyone, everywhere is entitled – including the right to life, liberty, security, freedom of opinion and expression and the right not to be subjected to torture or cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment.

Amnesty International's vision is of a world in which every person enjoys all these rights. With more than a quarter of a million members and supporters in the UK and over two million worldwide, the organisation campaigns to abolish the death penalty and end torture, for the release of all prisoners of conscience, to control the arms trade and to stop violence against omen.

On yer bike!

THE British Red Cross is looking for cyclists of all abilities to join its cycling team at the Lancashire Loop Sponsored Cycle Ride to help raise money for people in crisis both here in the UK and abroad. The event takes place on Sunday, 28 September 2008 and the challenge offers a choice of distances to suit everybody, including the family friendly 26 miles to the more taxing 54 mile course. Plus, if you’re seeking an even bigger challenge, then the 100 miles route, ascending to 500 feet, will certainly get your legs pumping!  The event starts and finishes at Cockerham Village Hall and all routes will be fully marshalled and sign-posted. Taking in the stunning scenery of the Lancashire Countryside, this cycling extravaganza is a brilliant way to have fun, keep fit and raise money for a great cause.  Limited places are still available, it is just £10 to enter and there is a minimum sponsorship target of £75 each. If you are interested in participating, please contact Laura on 0161 888 8915 or via email.

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