AN army of roadies is today continuing with the huge task of transporting an enormous stage from one Ipswich park to another one in time for the weekend.

AN army of roadies is today continuing with the huge task of transporting an enormous stage from one Ipswich park to another one in time for the weekend.

Up to 100 people will have lent a hand in the preparation of the stage for Westlife's gig this weekend.

It will have taken the army a full working day to dismantle the stage at Christchurch Park from last weeks Status Quo concert and another full day to construct it again at Chantry Park.

John Hessenthaler, concert promoter, said: "I have an exceptional crew working for me. They are both qualified and confident and that is the secret to getting such a massive project done in a little space of time."

It is not only the stage that has to be put up in Chantry Park but a huge walkway leading from the back of the stage into the audience.

Westlife will appear on the stage at the beginning of the show and walk through towards members of the audience.

Mr Hessenthaler added: "The walkway is a huge mechanism which appears like a fashion catwalk. At the start of the concert the boys will appear in the very distance and stride along it until they are actually walking into the crowd.

"I am confident everything will be set up in time and that we will give Ipswich a great show."

Seven 40ft lorries will travel back and forth to ensure the stage is moved in time. The lorries will also transport portable toilets and fencing from one park to the other.

Westlife perform at Chantry Park on Saturday. They will be supported by acts Blazin' Squad and Peter Andre.