Halloween/ Bonfire Night 2025

Once again Halloween and bonfire night will soon to be with us and you may be aware that in previous years the police have received unprecedented numbers of calls from the public concerning youth annoyance, public disorder and criminal damage on these days. In fact more calls are received by the police concerning such behaviour during Halloween and bonfire night than are received during the New Years Eve celebrations.

Halloween and Bonfire night are supposed to be fun and enjoyable, and for the majority of people it is. However, on occasions the actions of a few people has gone beyond the level of acceptability and has caused others to suffer harassment, alarm and distress. Halloween should not prove an excuse for anyone to roam the streets harassing and victimising people and motorists. Such behaviour could be considered as public disorder and positive police action will be taken. People should act responsibly and sensibly so as not to cause harassment, alarm or distress to members of the community, and for everyone to have a safe and enjoyable time.

Last year a concerted effort was made by Police, trading standards and schools to highlight the problems associated with such behaviour and its consequences. Pleasingly last year this resulted in fewer incidents and complaints being reported to the police from the public than in previous years.

Some of the most common complaints are of youths’ who victimise individuals by throwing flour, eggs and ignited fireworks at them, their cars and houses. Such behaviour could result in serious injury or even cause a road traffic collision, especially if a car is pelted with eggs and flour or struck by a firework, resulting in the driver losing control due to shock or lack of visibility. 

Today PCSO Claire Jones will be visiting our local shops to discuss the sale of eggs and flour. As a retailer, we remind them they hold a position of responsibility within the community, and we need their assistance to alleviate the problems encountered in previous years. This can be achieved by not selling flour, eggs or fireworks for a period from the 10th October to 6th November to youths or any persons suspected to be purchasing them for the reason of causing anti-social behaviour.

If we can prevent youths from obtaining flour, eggs or fireworks to use in an irresponsible and unlawful manner we can significantly reduce the problems that can occur at this time of year. Our retailers’ always welcome our advice and help us achieve this. By working in partnership, we can make Halloween and Bonfire night an enjoyable time and promote a safer community for all.

We encourage all residents to report any concerns we encounter this coming month.

Thank you