More Twickenham gigs or else, say rugby officials

Sep 6 2008 By Ian Griggs

Twickenham

Rugby chiefs at Twickenham Stadium have threatened to pull the plug on financial support for nearby businesses unless they support a licence application for more gigs.

RFU bosses will apply to Richmond Council for a three year licence allowing it to hold up to five music concerts a year without further notice instead of the current situation where they are allowed three and have to ask for permission to hold an extra two.

The RFU says the three-year license would be cheaper and more streamlined and it has asked the Whitton Business Association to pledge its support for the application.

But WBA members are understood to be split on the issue, with its chairman, Robert Charrington, known to oppose the application.

"My personal opinion is that many retailers lose half their takings on rugby or concert days," said Mr Charrington.

But the RFU, which has financially supported the WBA for eight years with around s20,000 in total for Christmas lights and a St George's Day Parade, is furious at its reticence to pledge support.

"We have never asked for anything in return but if the WBA is not prepared to show a little solidarity, we don't see the point of being in partnership with them," a spokesman said. "We are very disappointed at the reaction of some people and it is almost certain we will withdraw financial support for the WBA, if it does not support us, although we will continue to support the wider Whitton community."

WBA RFU liaison member John Heigham said the group would meet on Monday to discuss the issue, but stopped short of saying a decision would be made.