FIREWORK displays across the city will not be taking place this year due to the current restrictions.

The annual fireworks display at Sixways has been cancelled for the first time in fifteen years.

A spokesman for Sixways said: "We regret to announce that due to the COVID-19 pandemic the decision has been taken to cancel this year’s Sixways Fireworks event.

"This is not a decision that has been taken lightly as the event is very popular with families from Worcester and across the region and has been for 15 years.

"But with current Government social distancing guidelines restricting the number of spectators permitted to attend events and those regulations also being subject to change at short notice we felt it was better to make a decision now rather than disappoint you with a possible late cancellation.

"The safety of all our customers and staff is paramount to us, and we would not want this to be compromised in any way.

"We hope you understand our reasoning for making this decision, disappointing though it is.

"We look forward to welcoming you back to Sixways for an even bigger and better Bonfire Night in 2021."

Sixways are not the only ones cancelling. Red Hill Primary School's Firework Extravaganza is not going ahead either.

Headteacher, Spencer Morris said: "We can confirm our hugely popular fireworks event will not be going ahead this year. We have to put safety first.

"The event is one of our biggest of the year and raises much needed funds for the school, our PTA is hard at work coming up with new ways we can raise money.

"The children are very sad that the fireworks are not going ahead, but rest assured we will be back next year bigger and better."

The Pitchcroft annual display is also cancelled. The popular fun fair and firework display run by the Worcestershire Round Table will not be going ahead this year.

Even the West Midlands Safari Park has opted out. A spokesperson said: "It is with great disappointment that we announce our annual Firework Festival weekend has been cancelled this year.

"Given the continuing uncertainty and after liaising with the local authority, these factors have been key in finalising a very difficult decision."

With the cancellations the likelihood that more people will be having firework displays at home has increased, Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service is urging people to take extra care.

Here are some do’s and don’ts if you're having fireworks at home:

DO

• follow the instructions on the firework box

• buy from legitimate and licensed sellers and never from social media sites

• stand well back when watching and wear gloves to hold sparklers

• keep pets indoors – loud bangs and whistles can frighten animals

DON’T

• play with fireworks

• give sparklers to young children

• go back to a firework that has been lit

• set off fireworks late at night or early in the morning

• buy fireworks if you are under 18 – it is against the law

• misuse fireworks – this can incur a large fine or a prison sentence, or both

Group Commander Stuart Crebbin of HWFRS Community Risk said:“We want everyone to enjoy their firework celebrations safely and without causing inconvenience to others, so please remember these top tips for an enjoyable and accident - free evening.”

How will you be celebrating Bonfire Night this November?