Members of Ashfield District Council’s Cabinet, which met on Thursday (July 26th), approved plans to spend £12,500 on the event, which traditionally attracts thousands of people. It is hoped that a private sponsor for the event can be found and officers at the council are looking into this with local businesses in Ashfield

The Cabinet heard that in previous years the Council’s event had been recognised by the Emergency Services as being invaluable in terms of public safety and that it had a history of being a well run and organised event, providing a safe environment for people to enjoy themselves.

Cllr. Michael Mullaney, Portfolio Holder for Health and Housing told the Cabinet that the event fosters a feeling of civic pride and community spirit.

“Bonfire night is recognised as an event that reaches across communities and brings people and families from all different backgrounds together to enjoy a night of entertainment,” he said.

“The police are supportive of the event both in terms of ensuring that people are safe and less likely to attend less well organised bonfires and also in terms of it being a free evening of entertainment that reduces anti-social behaviour elsewhere”.

He added:

“To ensure the council can be as environmentally friendly as possible a carbon off setting scheme will be explored. The District Council Bonfire is well supported by EMAS and Nottinghamshire Fire Service, and the local press and Trent FM actively support the event with the provision of road shows and entertainment.”

For further details please contact Carys Turner-Jones, on 01623 457004.