Fireworks return after wildfire cancellations

Firework displays are set to return after being cancelled due to wildfire concerns.

The regular summer shows in Bournemouth and Poole were called off following a government emergency alert on 14 August, which warned about the heightened risk of fires.

BCP Council said the displays would now resume at Poole Quay on Thursday 27 August, and at Bournemouth beach on Friday 28 August, both starting at 22:00 BST, following discussions with emergency services and a reduction in wildfire risk across the area.

Two additional displays have also been announced for the following week, at Poole Quay on 3 September and Bournemouth beach on 4 September, at no extra cost to the council.

The Bournemouth beach displays normally run every Friday from the end of July, and had been due to continue until 28 August.

Poole Quay's four Thursday displays this summer had been due to finish on 27 August.

Councillor Richard Herrett, BCP Council's portfolio holder for destination, leisure and commercial operations, said: "We know that fireworks are a highlight of the summer calendar for many residents and visitors and we are delighted that they will be returning this week.

"The events bring our communities together, create memorable experiences for residents and visitors, and provide a welcome boost for local businesses and the wider visitor economy."

He added he was "particularly pleased" the cancelled display had been rescheduled for the first week of September, "to ensure we truly end the summer season in style."

"We encourage everyone to continue to enjoy the fireworks responsibly and help to create lasting memories for all the right reasons," he said.