Take That’s £10m circus act

THE Take That “Circus” tour rolled into town last week and created a multi-million pound boost for the region’s economy.

The North West Development Agency estimated that Take That fans spent around £10m in Manchester over the five dates at Lancashire County Cricket Club’s Old Trafford ground.

The NWDA said the figures highlight the importance of major events to the region’s economy, particularly in the current economic climate. It said that as well as generating a welcome economic boost, large scale events such as this help encourage tourism and improve the image of the region.

Take That’s circus shows were part of the band’s 20-date UK tour which was organised and managed by Manchester-based SJM Concerts.

Steven Broomhead, chief executive of the NWDA, said: “Take That’s Manchester dates were clearly a huge success for the band, and the spectacular shows were a great occasion for all the fans who travelled to the city.

“But as well as being a great event, the shows are likely to have brought a minimum of £10m into the region and, perhaps more importantly will have helped boost consumer and economic confidence.

“In the North West we have some fantastic venues for both music and sport and it is great to see them being put to good use in this way.”