New stand ready for party guests

“UNSAFE” - so Christmas party guests were told they couldn’t use the new North Stand

LATICS chiefs say theiir new Oldham Events Centre WILL be open for Christmas parties tonight.

Disaster struck last Friday when staff from companies on works’ outings turned up at 7pm only to find they were cancelled becuse the venue had failed a safety inspection. The club met a flood of criticism for the blunder

But Oldham Athletic now claims its “Winter Wonderland” event, which offers guests a meal, food and entertainment, will go ahead tonight as planned.

“We now have the required fire safety certificate, which caused the cancellation of last week’s event,” a spokesman said. “We will be welcoming 180 guests and then providing corporate hospitality for our matchday sponsors tomorrow.”

“MasterChef” winner Simon Wood is executive chef at the venue.