Overview
- Hundreds gathered in Birkenhead as an unauthorised bonfire and fireworks display went ahead at Ilchester Park after the council warned people not to attend.
- Wirral Council said the bonfire exceeded Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service size limits required under the site’s land use agreement, rendering the event unauthorised.
- North Birkenhead Development Trust confirmed it stepped back as organiser but remained nearby with a safe space tent for support.
- On nearby Magenta Living land at Bidston Rise, a separate bonfire was dismantled a day earlier after insurer advice, with the landlord warning tenants that lighting it would breach their agreements and could lead to formal action.
- Residents and volunteers describe the gatherings as long-standing community traditions, while one organiser reported mixed messages about permission and said he withdrew over fears of losing his home.