Person interviewed under 1875 Explosives Act as police issue fireworks warning

It’s the time of year that annoys almost as many people as it delights. Bonfire Night parties and firework displays have a long tradition but the noise they create can be a nightmare for farmers and pet owners.

Worst still are the fireworks set off in town centre streets designed to alarm passersby. Over the past two days, North Wales Police (NWP) have dealt with 16 anti-social incidents in north Flintshire alone, most linked to the irresponsible use of fireworks.

For much of the year it is illegal to set off fireworks between 11pm and 7am. On Bonfire Night itself (November 5), this is relaxed slightly with the deadline eased back to midnight. On other special occasions, including New Year’s Eve, Diwali and Chinese New Year, fireworks are allowed until 1am.

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At all times, it is illegal to set off or throw fireworks in the street or other public places. According to the NWP North Flintshire policing team, this is invariably a "cause for community tension every year". Examples from this weekend can be seen here.

On social media, a team member shared details of the often archaic laws that govern the use of fireworks on roads - and near churches. These are being used to prosecute or tick off offenders. Warning that officers will be on the look-out for culprits, they said: "One example is the Explosives Act of 1875 which we use in relation to fireworks set off in the highway.

“Another example we refer to as “Vexing a Priest” is the Ecclesiastical Courts Jurisdiction Act 1860. This makes it an offence to “molest, let, disturb, vex, or trouble, or by any other unlawful means disquiet or misuse any preacher” in any registered place of worship. I’ve got an interview today (Sunday, November 3) for an offence under the Explosives Act of 1875! Then I’ll be out being a nuisance.....”

You must be 18 or over to purchase fireworks. You can only buy fireworks and sparklers for private use between October 15-November 10; December 26 -December 31; and three days before Diwali and Chinese New Year. Only licensed shops can sell fireworks outside these times. Join the North Wales Live Whatsapp community now

Organised events

Police and fire chiefs have urged people to attend public bonfire and fireworks events rather than holding back garden parties. Given that November 5 falls on Tuesday this year, some organised events have been held over the weekend. Among the most impressive was the pagan “Wicker Man” burning event at Park In The Past, an historical re-enactment and recreation site near Hope, Wrexham

Those being held tonight (Sunday) include Llandudno’s annual promenade display at 6.30pm. Tomorrow (Monday, November 4), it’s Colwyn Bay’s turn. Last year’s event at Eirias Park was cancelled due to Storm Ciarán and this time round there’s a change of venue.

It’s being hold on the promenade, at 7pm, which Colwyn Bay Town Council said it is a “more accessible site – with a lower risk of cancellation”. Entry is free (donations are welcomed). Parking will be the issue and attendees are urged to park up “responsibly” and walk to the promenade.

On November 5 itself, another fire service sanctioned event is at Mold Football Club, 6pm. Rhyl’s display is on the same evening at Brooks Field, 7.30pm. Sign up for the North Wales Live newsletter sent twice daily to your inbox

If you are still planning a bonfire night party at home, the following rules apply:

• Ensure your firework display finishes before 12am.

• If you are having a bonfire, do not burn any household waste as this could result in a fine of up to £5,000. Burn only dry, unpainted wood.

• Buy your fireworks between October 15 and November 10.

• Never go back to a lit firework, even if it hasn’t yet gone off. Light the firework from an arms length away and make sure everyone stands well back.

• Do not drink alcohol if you are responsible for the fireworks and make sure children are closely monitored.

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