Gary Barlow thanks AO Arena for "coming to the rescue" after Co-op Live drama

Take That's Gary Barlow has thanked the AO Arena for "coming to the rescue" of the band in Manchester over the past week after Co-op Live's opening dramas.

Take That had been due to play five of their eagerly anticipated homecoming shows at the brand new Co-op Live Arena from Tuesday May 9 through to Sunday May 12.

But after a technical issue hit Co-op Live on its full opening night, Take That took the "difficult decision" to change venues while safety checks were carried out. All five shows were switched to the AO Arena, with just one having to change date as Tenacious D were already booked at the AO Arena on May 8.

READ MORE: Take That break record in Manchester at AO Arena

The band played their fifth show of the run on Sunday night, and afterwards Gary Barlow took to instagram to reflect on the past week.

He said: "What a week - Manchester - wow @aoarena we can’t thank you enough for coming to our rescue - making us feel so welcome.

He added his praise for the fans in Manchester too saying: "and then came the audiences - absolutely incredible."

He signed off saying: "We will see you in a month Manchester" referring to the bands June 11 and 12 gigs that are scheduled to take place back at the Co-op Live arena.

Mark Owen added on his instagram: "Manchester you delivered!!! Thank you so much for such a memorable week."

The switch to AO Arena also meant the band claimed a special record over the week. They became the band to have played the most gigs ever at the arena - Sunday bringing it to 51 in total - and claimed special plaques from the venue to cement the milestone.

Now, fans can look forward to their June return when they are due to play at Co-op Live on June 11 and 12.

Bosses at Co-op Live have confirmed the venue will definitely open this week - with the homecoming show of Bury band Elbow on Tuesday, May 14.

They have completed a full safety inspection of the buidling after what they say was an "isolated" fault caused a piece of air conditioning unit to fall from the ceiling just hours before A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie was due to play the opening show on May 1. That led to the show being cancelled while gig-goers were queuing outside ready to get in.

A statement from Co-op Lives released on Friday said: “Following the incident in the bowl on 1 May 2024, an inspection and verification report was undertaken by SES subcontractors. In consultation with Manchester City Council, responsible authorities, and wider stakeholders, we are satisfied with the process and outcome of the investigation identifying the HVAC nozzle as an isolated manufacturing default.

"This is a standard process of review in any venue when such an incident occurs. We now look forward to welcoming fans to elbow’s opening performance on 14 May 2024 and to proceed with all scheduled events.

"Co-op Live is purpose built for music, showcasing enhanced sightlines and innovative acoustic design for music fans and artists to enjoy a full live entertainment experience. As so, we are especially disappointed to have delayed our introduction and frustrated so many in the process.

"For all shows rescheduled to take place at Co-op Live, and for those ticket holders of shows next week that have worried about their shows taking place, we want to ensure that all fans have the best possible experience at their long-awaited event."