Bolton Council is urging residents not to organise or attend unlicensed bonfires this weekend due to the dangers, disturbances and clean-up costs.

Several unapproved bonfires have been removed by the council and police in recent years.

Bonfires are only licensed if they meet strict safety standards and unlicensed events can pose a serious fire risk to surrounding buildings, including people’s homes.

There are also requirements about how bonfire material is stored to minimise the risk of accidental fires.

Noise and smoke from unlicensed bonfires can also cause significant disturbances to people in the nearby community.

Grassed areas can be churned up into mud and left with huge burn marks.

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The council also warns that removing unlicensed bonfires imposes significant costs, as teams may need to make several visits to the site and repair damage to the land.

Fireworks are also a major safety concern, with the council asking people to either attend an organised display or, if using fireworks at home, stick carefully to the fireworks code.

A spokesperson for Bolton Council said: “Bonfire night is a great British tradition and we hope that everyone can enjoy it safely.

“Most people are well aware of the dangers of bonfires and fireworks and never have any issues, but every year we see injuries, unapproved bonfires, hoax calls and anti-social behaviour.

“None of these are acceptable and we are working with the police, fire service and our partner organisations to reduce them.

“Where we find unapproved bonfires being prepared, we will remove them.

“Please do the safe and sensible thing and enjoy bonfire night at a properly organised and licensed event.”