Huge fire started in Merseyside as angry protest against council

A massive bonfire was set ablaze on Wednesday evening in a furious protest against the local council. Spectators flocked to the roaring inferno as it illuminated the night sky of Ilchester Park and for miles across Birkenhead, Merseyside. The huge blaze, which comes two weeks before Bonfire Night, follows social media posts alleging authorities have prohibited events this year.

However, Bidston and St James councillor Liz Grey dismissed these claims as "misinformation".

She stated: "The council really wanted to support local people to make sure it would be done safely. The council officers have worked really hard to make sure it would go ahead without any danger to anybody. There has never been any intention in the council to stop it.

"There has been misunderstanding or misinformation saying the council wanted to stop it."

She emphasised that the council's primary concern has been ensuring no one is injured. She believes that the community deserves to have a bonfire and hopes they will be able to organise an event on Bonfire Night given that many people will have missed it tonight, reports Liverpool Echo.

Photographs taken at the park depict towering flames and billows of smoke rising high into the air. Fireworks are also being launched in the area.

Meanwhile, another bonfire has been lit on the Woodchurch Estate in Wirral. The event has drawn a large crowd, with spectators gathering to enjoy the spectacle.