Fears over "draconian" security for Pope visit

Aug 24 2010 by Emma McKinney, Birmingham Mail

IT’S set to be the biggest event of the decade for Birmingham’s Catholic community.

Around 70,000 people are expected to pack out Cofton Park to see Pope Benedict XVI celebrate Mass on September 19.

But if any of them were thinking about celebrating with a blast on a Vuvuzela, a cheeky sip of wine or a tasty barbecue, or even taking their pet dog, they had better think again.

Organisers have sent out a detailed list of banned items, covering everything from gazebos and wine, to pets and candles.

Even hampers and coolboxes must conform to the Vatican’s guideline dimensions, posted on the official papal visit website.

Among the items permitted for the Birmingham gathering are sunblock, banners, flags, torches, cushions and small folding chairs.

But World Cup horns, barbecues and anything else deemed to be “things that could pose a threat to yourself or others” have been outlawed.

That list includes musical instruments, whistles, and even bicycles.

Peter Jennings, spokesman for the Archdiocese of Birmingham, said he felt security for the event had gone too far.

“I think the security’s draconian, but I can’t question the authorities on security,” he said.

“They’re in charge. The government is in charge of the security and they have to make the decisions.”