Increased police presence in part of Nottingham on Bonfire Night after 'firework war'

Nottinghamshire Police say Radford is the latest location in which the force will step up their presence ahead of Halloween and Bonfire Night, after incidents in 2023 which led to eight arrests in the area. A "firework war" took place in Midlands Way, outside a number of University of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent University accommodation blocks, on Sunday, November 5, 2023.

There were more than 200 attendees at the pre-planned event, which was dubbed as being between the St Peter's Court and Trinity Square accommodations, on the street not far from Ilkeston Road. Videos on TikTok showed the dangerous incident unfold, with a number of 999 calls being made to police at around 11pm on the night before the event was shut down.

Nobody was injured in the commotion, but eight male suspects, between the ages of 16 and 23, were arrested on suspicion of violent disorder. Now, police say extra "high-visibility patrols" will be on standby this year, before and during Bonfire Night.

Clifton is also subject to a rise in police patrols after incidents last year. A dispersal order will be in place on Southchurch Drive and surrounding streets, allowing police to take action against people who they see hanging around in the area, after fireworks were shot at public and police on Halloween in 2023.

Ahead of November 5, neighbourhood officers in Radford are heading out leaflets containing safety advice around fireworks. The leaflets also contain information about public displays and raise awareness of the potential consequences of engaging in disorder.

Sergeant Matt Leask, of the City Central neighbourhood policing team, said: “Bonfire Night is a fantastic occasion and our number one priority is ensuring that everyone can enjoy the festivities safely. Whilst we’re pleased that the vast majority of people do have fun in a safe way, there is always a risk of a small minority deciding to engage in disorder and heightened anti-social behaviour.

“Sadly, eight arrests were made last year after incidents in Midland Way and we’ll be taking a zero-tolerance approach again this year, with officers taking firm action against anyone behaving irresponsibly. Those responsible not only risk causing injury to others, as well as themselves, but they create an atmosphere on the streets where people can feel unsafe.

“As such we’ll be deploying extra high-visibility patrols up to and including Bonfire Night to reassure members of the public and to ensure everyone can have a safe and fun time.”