German Festival Bans Backpacks Amid Security Fears

Wacken Open Air festival spokeswoman Anna Lorenz said that checking rucksacks would slow security checks too much.

Safety concerns have increased at public events across Germany since a suicide bomber blew himself up outside a music festival in Ansbach last month, injuring 15 people.
Festival-goers will be able to take in waist packs, and larger bags will still be allowed at camp sites nearby.

The festival, running from August 4 to 6 is held in a small village north west of Hamburg and is expected to draw 75,000 people this year.

The 120-plus acts include Iron Maiden, Saxon and Blind Guardian.