Sparklers snuffed out by ’elf and safety

OVER-zealous ’elf and safety officers extinguished the fun for hundreds of families attending public firework displays at the weekend by banning sparklers.

Families said they were ‘ disgusted’ by the rules, which needlessly upset children and patronised parents.

The Round Table group, which organised 70 firework parties this year in public parks and stadiums, has also spoken out against the rules, which it says it is bound to comply with.

At one of the displays on Saturday night in Moseley, Birmingham, a large sign stated ‘Strictly no sparklers’ on site.

Around 300 people attended, paying £5 for adults and £2 for children to enter. But anybody who attempted to light sparklers were told to extinguish them immediately.

Gordon Avery, from Sheldon, Birmingham, who was there

‘They are too dangerous’

with grandsons Kieran, 13, and Elliot, 11, said: ‘There are so many kids here, if they are being supervised by their parents then I don’t see why it is a problem.

‘I’ve gone to fireworks shows for decades. It’s health and safety gone mad.’

Similar rules were in place at other Round Table displays across the country.

At its fireworks party on Saturday night at Ascot Racecourse, stewards also warned members of the public not to light sparklers.

The event website advised: ‘For your own safety, we do not allow you to bring alcohol or your own fireworks to the event. This includes sparklers: They are too dangerous where there are crowds and excited children.’

Cait Allen, chief executive of Round Table, agreed that banning sparklers was ‘health and safety gone mad’, but added: ‘It’s just the venues’ insurance companies. We have to comply.’