Paris Attacks: Wolverhampton's Civic Hall installs metal detectors in bid to tighten security
Airport-style metal detectors have been installed at at Wolverhampton's Civic Halls as security is tightened in the wake of the Paris terror attacks.
Fans arriving to see An Audience with Paul Gascoigne this week were met with two scanners and were searched by staff, leading to delays to get into the venue.
The extra security measures resulted in queues snaking back along the concourse outside the Civic Halls as fans were delayed on Monday night.
Customers had to pass through the detectors and were frisked by security staff. Bags were also searched.
Fan Richard Bryans, of Stafford, said: "I have never seen security like that at the Civic before.
"In a way it is very reassuring and I am sure nobody minds a bit of extra queueing if it keeps everybody safe, particularly in light of the recent events in Paris."
It is not clear whether the metal detectors are permanent although they were fixed to the floor.
An unnamed member of security staff confirmed to the Express & Star that the detectors were a new thing.
He said: "It is in response to what happened at the Bataclan Theatre in Paris really. You can't be too careful and people don't seem to mind too much. It is a new thing."
Wolverhampton council confirmed that security had been increased, but refused to confirm whether the detectors would be used for all upcoming shows or were a temporary measure.
When the Express & Star visited the venue yesterday afternoon, they remained in place.
Councillor John Reynolds, the council's cabinet member for city economy, said: "We have always taken the safety of our visitors to the Civic Halls extremely seriously. In light of recent events we have taken additional steps to ensure appropriate security measures are in place."
Security is being stepped up at gig venues, shopping centres and football matches across the region following last month's terror attacks.
Fans arriving at Molineux ahead of Wolves' clash against MK Dons on Saturday faced extra bag searches and were urged to turn up early to the game in case of delays.
At Villa Park, fans will also be subjected to spot checks with metal detectors in the turnstile area, as well as spot checks on vehicles.
All bags will be searched so fans are asked not to take one, unless absolutely necessary.
