Bonfire night ready to go off with a bang
Thousands are expected to brave the cold to mark Bonfire Night with a bang this weekend as skies across Shropshire and Mid Wales are filled with fireworks.
Fire and rescue chiefs are urging people to attend officially organised events rather than attempting their own displays.
Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service received 33 emergency calls related to bonfires last year, putting resources under strain.
Guy Williams, station manager for the brigade's safety in the community team, said although no injuries were recorded the service is encouraging people not to do their own displays.
"Our main message is go to organised events. The vast majority of accidents occur at private parties on estates and in people's back gardens," he said.
"There is an awful lot of scope for damaging your property and putting those around you at risk.
"Also, fly-tipping is a criminal offence and if you are putting rubbish out on public land, you could be prosecuted. It isn't worth the risk."
As part of efforts to minimise problems, two fire engines will travel around Shrewsbury on November 5, putting out any bonfires on public land between 8pm and 10pm.
A host of large public bonfire displays will be taking place around the county this weekend and next week.
On Saturday, the Oswestry Annual Bonfire and Fireworks Display will celebrate its 25th anniversary in existence with a Lantern Parade through the town starting from Festival Square at 6.30pm before the main event gets under way at 7pm. The event has raised more than £40,000 for local good causes over the years and is organised by Oswestry Town Council and the Treble Niners.
Organisers are promising the "most spectacular display in memory" to mark the anniversary.
Mike Wilkinson, leader of the Treble Niners, said: "I hope that as many people as possible will come to Brogyntyn Park and enjoy this community event.
"The atmosphere is always most enjoyable and by bringing the community together, then we help fundraise for our local good causes and those less fortunate than ourselves."
In Shrewsbury, Caterpillar will be hosting its annual bonfire on Saturday night at its premises in Lancaster Road, with gates opening at 6pm.
Proceeds from the night will be split between Crossroads Car and Macmillan.
