Don’t stage unofficial Guy Fawkes displays say Cumbernauld Police

Please do not take it upon yourself to organise community bonfire night  displays even though you have already started this process.
By The Newsroom
Published 30th Oct 2020, 11:06 BST

That is the stark message from Cumbernauld Police who have learned this week that number of such events are already well into at the planning stage - at neighourhoods dotted across our area.
The Cumbernauld News understands that a number of elected representatives shared worries with officers that the unofficial firework bashes were taking part amidst safety fears.
Communities inspector Neil MacLeod said: “Police have been made aware that various community online forums are suggesting organising community fireworks/bonfire events.
“ It is important to stress that the police and local authority have not authorised such events for the reason that the events have not been appropriately risk assessed in regards to current social distancing guidelines. 
“Any organiser or participant at such an unauthorised event will risk intervention by police and enforcement of COVID regulations and legislation.”
The matter has been complicated by the fact that there will be no official municipal displays within North Lanarkshire Council boundaries this year.
The Strathclyde Park event due to take place in Motherwell but it fell prey to the restrictions mentioned by police. It was not intended to stage an event in Cumbernauld earlier this year due to budget cuts.