Locals have shared their views following the announcement that a free firework display would not be going ahead this year.

Bolton Town Hall chiefs confirmed yesterday (Thursday, October 13) that the popular annual event at Leverhulme Park would not be going ahead due to a lack of funds.

The news was met with a mix of reactions from Boltonians on social media. Jayne Turnbull said: “What a shame...comes to something when they take kids' entertainment away.”

Neil Farrell added: “This firework display was a highlight of the year for a lot of people and the only council-funded event that was worth a tat.”

Some social media users were more concerned with how this might lead to an increase in unregulated firework use.

ALSO READ: Leverhulme Park fireworks display will NOT go ahead this year

Doug Hall said: “It's a backward step. More unregulated bonfires and fireworks will result, creating even more noise and nuisance.”

However, for some Bolton residents, the news was welcomed.

“I think that it is really sensible to cancel the fireworks. Literally burning money in these awfully difficult times makes no sense at all. It can be far better spent on public services,” Angela Smith said.

Meanwhile, many expressed their relief for pets who are afraid of fireworks.

Cath Carr said: “No one with pets will be sorry about this. Fireworks are terrifying for many animals.”

Announcing the news, Manchester City Councillor Lee Ann Igbon, executive member for vibrant neighbourhoods, said: “This is not a decision we have taken lightly, and I know that many people will be disappointed.

“Nevertheless, due to a combination of factors such as rising costs, pressure on our budgets and, our ambition to be a net zero carbon city by 2038, we will not have council-organised bonfire events this year.”

The Leverhulme Park firework display hasn’t taken place since 2019 due to covid restrictions.