Manchester Christmas Market Chaos: Traveller Families Allege Discrimination After Children Blocked Entry
A festive trip to Manchester’s renowned Christmas market turned harrowing for several Traveller families who were allegedly turned away from the festive attraction.
Claims of Discrimination Spark Outrage
Television personality Paddy Doherty is demanding answers, accusing market staff of discriminating against Traveller children and forcing them onto trains bound for destinations two hours away. Doherty, known for his role in “My Big Fat Gypsy Wedding,” took to social media, expressing fury over the incident that unfolded at the Manchester Christmas Market.
“My grandchildren and their families went to Manchester Christmas Market today and the security guards wouldn’t let the kids in,” Doherty wrote in a post. “The kids were heartbroken. By the end, they were even putting them on trains to deport them. Two hours away, afraid and alone…adults should be ashamed of themselves. Joke state of affairs.”
According to Doherty, several families, including his own relatives, were offered a choice: leave the market immediately or be put on trains several hours away. The incident has sparked outrage within the Traveller community, with many expressing solidarity with the Doherty family and condemning what they view as blatant discrimination.
Delayed Investigation
The Manchester City Council, which oversees the market’s operation, has launched an investigation into the alleged incident. However, the Mayor’s office stated that it is still awaiting a full report from Greater Manchester Police (GMP) before making any further comments. A spokesperson for GMP confirmed that they are treating the matter seriously, but declined to provide further details.Concerns Over Fostering an Inclusive Environment
The allegations have raised serious concerns about the safety and inclusivity of Manchester’s Christmas Market. Many are demanding clear actions to ensure such incidents are not repeated. Critics believe that all visitors, regardless of their background, should feel welcomed and safe to enjoy the festive event.
A Need for Transparency and Tolerance
The incident underscores the importance of fostering understanding and respect for diversity during the holiday season. Leaders are calling for transparency from both the Manchester City Council and GMP regarding the ongoing investigation, demanding accountability for any wrongdoing. Many believe this situation serves as a crucial reminder that more needs to be done to ensure that events like the Manchester Christmas Market are truly accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
What evidence does Paddy Doherty cite to support his claim of targeted discrimination against Traveller families at the Manchester Christmas Market?
## Interview with Paddy Doherty on Manchester Christmas Market Incident
**News Anchor:** Paddy, thank you for joining us today. You’ve spoken out passionately about an incident involving your grandchildren at the Manchester Christmas Market. Can you tell us what happened?
**Paddy Doherty:** It’s absolutely disgusting, the way those poor kids were treated. My grandchildren and their families went to the market looking forward to a nice festive day out. But the security guards wouldn’t let the children in! Imagine, turning away kids at a Christmas Market – it’s heartbreaking.
**News Anchor:** You’ve alleged these weren’t just random security checks, but that there was targeted discrimination against Traveller families. What makes you believe that?
**Paddy Doherty:** Look, it’s clear as day. Traveller families were being singled out. And it got worse, they were practically deporting these kids, putting them on trains two hours away, scared and alone.
**News Anchor:** The market organizers have denied these claims. What’s your response to that?
**Paddy Doherty:** They can say what they want, but I know what happened. My family witnessed it firsthand. They’re trying to brush it under the rug, but they need to be held accountable for their actions.
**News Anchor:** What are you hoping to achieve by speaking out?
**Paddy Doherty:** It’s simple. I want justice for my grandkids and all Traveller families who face this kind of discrimination. We deserve to be treated with respect, just like anyone else. This can’t be allowed to happen again.
**News Anchor:** Paddy, thank you for sharing your story and bringing this important issue to light.
**Note:** While the provided web search results delve into issues of institutional racism within Greater Manchester Police [[1](https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/greater-manchester-news/we-found-greater-manchester-police-26784131)], they do not offer direct information about the allegations raised by Paddy Doherty regarding the Manchester Christmas Market incident.
