Sting concert reopens Bataclan on eve of Paris terror attacks anniversary

The area opposite the Bataclan became a small shrine as the concert drew closer Credit: PA

Mourners laid flowers and placed candles opposite France's Bataclan concert venue ahead of a show by Sting which marked one year since the Paris terror attacks.

The performance by the former Police frontman saw the concert hall open for the first time since 89 people were killed by Islamist gunmen on November 13, 2015.

There was a heavy police presence at the venue on Saturday night, with revellers being searched more than once as they headed inside.

Proceeds from the show went to Life for Paris and 13 Novembre: Fraternite Verite, organisations which offer aid to victims of the attacks and their families.

Among the mourners laying floral tributes on the pavement and railings opposite the 150-year-old venue was Leslie Podevin, 31, from Nantes.

She said: "We came here because we think it's important.

"We want to remember this day. When we saw the date we thought we have to come here and do something".

Sting performed at the Bataclan on Saturday Credit: Reuters

During the attacks, three armed men - Omar Ismail Mostefai, 29, Samy Amimour, 28, and Foued Mohamed-Aggad, 23 - stormed the Bataclan during a concert by rock band Eagles Of Death Metal, opening fire on concert goers.

On the same night, other attackers targeted cafes - including the Le Petit Cambodge restaurant - and the Stade de France.

In total 130 people died, among them Briton Nick Alexander who had been on tour with Eagles of Death Metal selling merchandise.

Sting said of the concert:

There was a heavy police presence near the Bataclan Credit: Reuters