Expectations of a normal 5th November have once again been dashed with councils removing funding and the focus has shifted to anti-social behaviour away from a fun evening for all.
This year, London had even more Bonfire Night cancellations compared to last year, with East London seeming to suffer the most. The Victoria Park fireworks, previously one of the biggest displays in London, is one of the many events that have now been cancelled for a number of years. Hackney, Lewisham, and Southwark councils all came forward prior to Bonfire Night to inform their communities that displays will not take place due to a ‘lack of funds’ or the ‘the cost-of-living crisis’
Many of these events were volunteer-led so local council funding just helped out – but it was still needed. Councils are struggling to fund basic activities and this affects our communities. We must consider that without safe designated bonfire nights, others will take matters into their own hands.
A perfect example of what was to come was the chaos in Stratford at Halloween. Local police, as well as the Metropolitan Police Territorial Support, were called to Stratford to respond to reports of improper use of fireworks. A large crowd of teenagers were shooting fireworks at each other and at bystanders. Luckily no one was injured.
This is what happens when public institutions retreat from providing allocated safe spaces to their communities. With Diwali, Halloween and Bonfire Night all happening one after the other, this supervision is essential for everyone’s safety.
And, of course, chaos ensured on Bonfire Night.
Extra powers were given to Barking and Ilford to monitor anti-social behaviour during the Bonfire Night weekend and dispersal zones were set up under Section 35 of the Anti-Social Behaviour Crime and Policing Act 2014.
Around the country, from Dundee to Halifax Bonfire Night was a night of anti-social chaos.
Each year, our local services release information on how to be safe during this time, however in 2022 there are many who ignored this advice. What amount to rebellious acts, dangerous for all, are happening. This could be avoided with just a little of the right funding and support.
