Express & Star

Stereophonics fans refund fiasco fury - after discounted tickets offered for festival 130 miles away

Stereophonics fans have been left fuming after being told they will not get a full refund for missing the band’s Birmingham gig due to the Beast from the East.

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Stereophonics

Instead they are being offered a discount to see the band at a summer festival 130 miles away.

The Welsh rockers took to the stage at the Genting Arena on March 1, but thousands were unable to get there as snow blizzards hit the West Midlands.

The band took to their social media channels to tell people to keep hold of their tickets, as they were looking ‘to address the situation’.

But, unhappy fans have now hit out at the band’s promoters after being told they would not be getting a full refund – but will instead get £25 off a full priced day or weekend ticket to see the band at Rize Festival, in Chelmsford, in August.

Stereophonics will be headlining the festival on August 18, at Hylands Park – more than 130 miles away from the Genting Arena.

Day tickets cost £59.50 and weekend tickets cost £115, while weekend camping tickets start at £160. And to take advantage fans will also have to book by Easter Monday or lose out altogether. Many have taken to Twitter to express their frustration after waiting weeks for an update – with one stating they would never watch the band live again.

Michael Kempson said: “Well this is my email regarding the exceptional circumstances that left myself and others unable to attend #StereophonicsBirmingham. The band tell you to keep hold of your tickets and after four weeks I get £25 off a festival 150 miles away as long as I buy in four days.”

Rob Gleed said: “Aw you guys are so generous. Discounted tickets and a five hour round trip to compensate for following Government advice and not travelling to Birmingham and missing your gig. Gee thanks! I have seen you six times and never again.”

Lisa Forbes added: “Very clever PR move saying to hold on to the tickets so they will try and address the issue, while there was a lot of media attention. Clearly had no intention of resolving it for the fans.”

An email sent to ticket holders from Amazon Tickets’ customer services department, seen by the Express & Star, said: “As a gesture of goodwill, the promoter would like to offer you a special discount of £25 when purchasing a full-priced day ticket or weekend ticket to Rize Festival where you will have the opportunity to see the headlining performance by the Stereophonics, among other great acts. Please note this offer is only valid until April 2.”

Those wanting to use the discount for Rize Festival, can call the Ticket Factory on 0333 300 3010.