Overview
- Large unsanctioned bonfires were lit on October 22 at Ilchester Park in Birkenhead and on the Woodchurch Estate, with crowds and intermittent fireworks reported.
- Mersey Fire and Rescue Service attended Ilchester Park with two engines, reported a large group of youths present, and said crews were liaising with Merseyside Police.
- Claims on social media that councils had banned events were rejected by Bidston and St James councillor Liz Grey, who called them misinformation and said the aim is safe community celebrations.
- Across Greater Manchester, most councils are not staging traditional bonfire events in 2025, with Manchester continuing its pause and Oldham replacing Oldham Edge with a free town‑centre show on November 1, while Rochdale will run three free council displays.
- Community, club and private organisers have filled the gap with paid and free events, including sensory-friendly or low‑noise options and digital displays such as Printworks’ indoor show and the Irish World Heritage Centre’s accessible programme.