**Warning Issued Over Ilchester Park Bonfire Night Event** Residents in Merseyside are being advised against attending a Bonfire Night event at Ilchester Park due to safety concerns regarding an oversized bonfire. Wirral Council has labelled the bonfire as "unauthorised" after it exceeded the size limits set by the Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service (MFRS). The stricter regulations were implemented following recommendations from MFRS and a new policy approved by local councillors earlier this year, after a successful trial in 2024. Last year, several bonfires were deemed unsafe, prompting the need for tighter controls. Four Bonfire Night events have been officially sanctioned by the local authority at Leasowe, Beechwood, Noctorum, and Seacombe. Additionally, an authorised event is set to take place on the Woodchurch Estate, organised by the community group Woodchurch Connect. Following the lighting of the bonfire at Ilchester Park, Cllr Julie McManus, deputy leader of Wirral Council, along with Cllr Liz Grey, expressed their confusion over the situation. The event had received support from the North Birkenhead Development Trust, which operates the nearby St James Centre. On October 29, the trust acknowledged community feedback, stating, "We’ve listened to the community this week and recognise that an organised event feels safer and less stressful for many." They also expressed gratitude to those involved in making the event happen, emphasising the importance of collaboration between the community and services. The trust assured that the bonfire would be smaller this year and constructed just two days before the event to comply with safety regulations. They promised an exciting fireworks display, live music, food, and the community spirit that residents cherish. However, just minutes before the event was scheduled to commence, a spokesperson for Wirral Council announced, "Regrettably, the North Birkenhead Development Trust (NBDT) have had to withdraw from their role as organisers of tonight’s planned event at Ilchester Park. This is due to some members of the local community building the bonfire bigger than the limit that was specified by Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service and which was a requirement under the terms of the land use agreement with Wirral Council. As such, any activity on Ilchester Park this evening is unauthorised, and residents should not attend." Despite the council's warning, the organisers appear to be moving forward with the event. A Facebook post made at 3.28pm on November 5 did not mention the bonfire but promised a spectacular fireworks display between 7pm and 9pm.