Published: Thursday, 14th Oct 2021

Bolton Council is reminding residents to keep themselves and their families safe as they celebrate Halloween and Bonfire Night.

The council is working with Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, Greater Manchester Police, and others to promote safety messages and keep our communities safe.

Alongside the usual risks associated with this time of year, it is also vital to remember that COVID-19 has not gone away, and large gatherings increase the risk of the virus spreading.

Halloween

Families are asked to avoid door-to-door trick-or-treating as this can make elderly or vulnerable neighbours feel anxious.

Parents are reminded that children’s Halloween costumes are classed as toys, and it is important to check they are CE marked to ensure they meet required fire safety standards.

Bonfire Night

The misuse of fireworks can have serious, life changing consequences and they should only be handled by adults in the correct manner. 

Anyone considering hosting their own event this year should follow Greater Manchester Fire Service’s Firework Safety Code.

To report incidents of anti-social behaviour, including firework nuisance, you can use LiveChat or online reporting on the GMP website.

You can also call 101 or dial 999 in an emergency.

COVID safety and Leverhulme Park

The pandemic has impacted a number of popular events this year and put a significant strain on council resources.

Following a review of the annual events calendar, the council has concluded that it does not have the required resources or budget to hold a firework display safely.

As a result, and in line with government advice, there will unfortunately not be a firework display in Leverhulme Park.

A spokesperson for Bolton Council said:

“Given constraints on budgets and resources, we have taken the difficult decision not to hold a firework display in Leverhulme Park.

“With a significant risk of a spike in COVID-19 cases this winter, it would not be possible to enable social distancing or limit spectator numbers across the site.

“We understand many people will be disappointed, but it is vital we keep people safe and avoid putting extra pressure on our NHS.”