Council killjoys have decided to cancel a traditional bonfire at a fireworks display in Derbyshire this year. Labour-run Erewash Borough Council has removed the bonfire from the upcoming Starry Skies Spectacular event in Long Eaton, Derbyshire, citing environmental concerns over excess smoke.

The event, which is taking place on Saturday November 2 is accompanied by music and includes a funfair but there will be no bonfire this year. In small print on the official event poster it explains: “Aligning with the council’s evnironmental responsibility, there will be no bonfire taking place at this year’s event.”

Local residents have vented their frustrations, with one, Nicholas Gaunt, age 37, stating it’s “wokery gone mad”. He commented: “What kind of bonfire night is it without a bonfire? It’s good to think of the environment but these are traditions that bring the community together.”

The event poster noted the absence of the bonfire in recognition of the “council’s environmental responsibility”, while council information highlighted the move as part of efforts to reduce air pollution and its effects on individuals with respiratory conditions, reports The Sun.

In a last ditch attempt to attract more paying customers to the event the council dropped the price of tickets this week.

Tickets

Ticket prices have been reduced for the event. Adult tickets are down from £12 to just £8 if booked in advance – with entry for children aged 16 and under falling from £9 to just £5. The deadline for the online deal is 2pm on the day of the display in Long Eaton’s West Park.

Prices on the night will be £10 for adults and £7 for children. Advance family tickets are now just £20 – down from £30. The price on the night has also been cut by a tenner to £25. People who have already bought tickets will get the price difference automatically refunded within five to ten days.

The council’s Deputy Leader Becca Everett, who is Lead Member for Community Engagement, declared: “We are committed to providing affordable, high-quality entertainment for our residents – and by rolling back ticket prices we hope to encourage even more people to attend this fantastic event and create lasting memories.”

Opening times

Gates open at 5pm – with the fireworks starting at 7pm on a Saturday night that is forecast to be clear and dry. The space-themed soundtrack will include hits from David Bowie, Elton John, Coldplay and Muse.

Find out more about the event by clicking here.