Security will be tightened at a County Durham fireworks display after anti-social behaviour at last year's event.
People brought in their own fireworks and snuck into the launch site in Newton Aycliffe, prompting the new measures for this year's display.
Great Aycliffe Town Council said the measures have been added to comply with new government legislation and also in response to last year’s anti-social behaviour.
The government legislation, known as Martyn’s Law, enhances security against terrorism-related risks in public areas and events.
Bag checks at the site entrance have also been introduced and additional security staff will be patrolling the site and surrounding areas.
A spokesperson from Great Aycliffe Town Council said: “We ask people not to bring their own fireworks or sparklers along as it is a football pitch. Last year, we did have instances of people bringing in their own fireworks.
“We’ve also noticed people have started to sneak into the event, so we hope the bag checking areas will prevent that from happening.”
The display, on Wednesday, November 5, is scheduled half an hour earlier than previously with a beacon lighting at 6.30pm followed by the firework display at 6.45pm.
The event is free, but those wishing to attend must apply for a wristband in advance.
Wristbands will be available at the OakLeaf Sports Complex from Tuesday, October 21, 2025, from 1pm to 7pm each day until all wristbands have been distributed.
To be eligible for a wristband you must:
- Reside in the Parish of Great Aycliffe
- Supply proof of your address with a recent utility bill
or driving licence
The spokesperson added: “It's such a large site to manage and it's very difficult to keep the site with just wristband holders.
READ MORE:
- Newton Aycliffe fireworks display could return as ticket-only event
- Huge firework display set to return to Darlington's South Park this November
- Newton Aycliffe fireworks display axed - but organisers hope for its return next year
“We're hoping the additional security onsite will help prevent non-wristband holders entering.
“Whilst it is a change for the public entering the site, we hope that everybody can understand the reasons why we need to do this to comply with forthcoming laws and keep everybody safe on the site.
“The additional measures are to ensure a safe and enjoyable event for the whole family.”
Share