BONFIRE NIGHT 2010: Council and Fire Service issue safety warning and full list of Wirral firework displays

Nov 5 2010 By Lorna Hughes

FIREWORK displays to mark Bonfire Night are taking place across the borough this weekend – and Wirralians are being urged to keep safe by attending an organised event instead of holding their own.

There are eight free displays approved by Wirral Council tonight (Friday), with more on Saturday night.

Wirral Council is urging parents to do their part by warning children about the dangers of fires and firework misuse.

Merseyside Fire Service is asking the public for help to stop its resources being overstretched with deliberate fires.

There will also be high visibility policing and advice to shops about the sale of alcohol, fireworks, flour and eggs to young people.

Councillor Chris Blakeley, cabinet member for housing and community safety, said: "This is not about stopping people enjoying themselves, it is all about asking people just to put safety first.

"This might be by ensuring that no potentially flammable materials are left lying around.

"Residents are being asked, where possible, to store their wheelie bins away from windows and doors and try to ensure they are not easily accessible to the general public."

Merseyside Fire Service said unauthorised bonfires found on public land would be removed.

Arson Reduction Advocate Mike Buratti said: "Our message is to participate in the organised public events. This is also the perfect opportunity for residents to think about fire safety."

Chief Inspector Bob Gittins of Merseyside Police, said: "Anti-social behaviour throughout this period will not be tolerated and we encourage residents to report any issues to the authorities in order that they can be dealt with promptly."

To report a bonfire, call 0800 731 5958. Incidents of anti-social behaviour can be reported to Merseyside Police on 709 6010.

FIREWORK DISPLAYS

PUBLIC firework displays approved by Wirral Council all start at 6.30pm on Friday, November 5 at:

Lingham Park, Moreton

Upton Park, Moreton

Woodchurch Leisure Centre

Birkenhead Park

Central Park, Wallasey

Mersey Park, Tranmere

Mayer Park, Bebington

Leasowe Adventure

Playground (including a

community organised bonfire)

A BONFIRE and firework display takes place on the sports field behind Gladstone Village Hall in Burton on Friday, November 5. Gates open at 6pm. The bonfire will be lit at 6.30pm and fireworks start at 7pm. Bring a torch and suitable footwear. Refreshments and snacks including tea, coffee and hot dogs will be available. Admission is £4, adults and children 11+, £3 for five to 10- year-olds. Vehicles can be Park cars at Bishop Wilson School, Puddington Lane, Burton Manor and on the sports field (weather permitting).

WEST Kirby RNLI bonfire and fireworks display, supported by West Kirby Sailing Club, is at 6pm on Saturday, November 6. Admission is free but there will be a collection fund for the Lifeboat service. The service will take place on the beach at West Kirby, adjacent to the sailing club. The bonfire will startbe set alight at 6pm, with fireworks at 6.30pm. There will be food and souvenirs for sale.

AN organised firework display takes place in Meols Park on Sunday, November 7 from 1pm to 7pm. There and there will be children’s rides, food and refreshmentsand mulled wine. The event ends with fireworks to music.