Safe Woodstock
I want to write and express my dismay at the organisation of Woodstock. I arrived at about 9pm only to find that the event was full and there was little chance of me getting in before it finished.
From my position outside the gates, I could see plenty of space, so it can only be ‘Health and Safety’ regulations that limited the capacity. Isn’t it time that the University stopped its obsession with safety rules and instead focus on common sense? This would surely have dictated that people shouldn’t be abandoned beside Central Hall where one man was free to go for a swim in the lake – I doubt very much that his risk of disease is less than the extra risk 200 more people would bring to an outdoor concrete space.
Why can’t the University take a lesson from other universities where events can feature such dangerous wonders as bouncy castles (not allowed at York events) and put student interests first?
John Craine,
Second Year English and Philosophy student
Tim Bateson
I would kindly suggest that the author try sitting in Ents Committee a few times to see how much of an uphill struggle putting on any kind of event is, nevermind one as large as Woodstock.
Access to Woodstock is a priviledge, not a right - your showing up at Woodtsock at 9PM is much like pitching up at Toffs after midnight on the Tuesday of Freshers’ Week and expecting not to queue. Try arriving at noon next year to ensure entry. I would also point out that the event is also free; something that I understand may unfortunately have to change next year.
If you think you could do better, then fine - I suggest you contact the Ents or Services Officers to volunteer your services. Just make sure you don’t mind months of meetings, whole days on the phone, working (unpaid) for 48 hours straight or sleeping on an incomplete outdoor stage…
Tim Bateson
Former URY Assistant Station Manager; Woodstock 2004 Media Liaison; Battle of the Bands 2005 Press & Publicity, Webmaster and Photographer; Finance Committee Member; Ents Committee Member; etc.