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Suffolk emergency services launch Halloween and Bonfire Night safety campaign

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Ipswich's only independent news website

We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service and Trading Standards have joined forces to promote safety during upcoming Halloween and Bonfire Night celebrations, encouraging residents to attend organised displays rather than host private fireworks events.

Why it matters: Suffolk's emergency services typically see an increase in call-outs during Halloween and Bonfire Night. Following safety guidance helps prevent unnecessary accidents and injuries and reduces pressure on emergency services.

Fireworks behind a tree at Christchurch Park in Ipswich
Fireworks behind a tree at Christchurch Park in IpswichGlyn SmithAlamy

Key safety advice:

  • Buy fireworks only from licensed retailers, not social media sellers

  • Purchase Halloween costumes from reputable shops and check for flame-resistant labels

  • Keep costumes away from naked flames

  • Use battery-powered candles in pumpkins

  • Ensure Halloween decorations don't block escape routes

  • Use reflective tape and glowsticks to stay visible near roads

For families using sparklers:

  • Don't give them to children under five

  • Wear gloves and hold at arm's length

  • Keep a bucket of water or sand nearby

  • Never throw them or leave hot sparklers on the ground

What they're saying: "We want everyone to have a great time and enjoy all the activities of this time of year in safety," said Group Manager Lee Wilkins, SFRS head of Prevention, Community Engagement and Partnership Working.

Suffolk County Council Cabinet Member Steve Wiles added: "Items such as naked-flame candles and fireworks can have disastrous consequences if misused so please do follow the safety advice as it there to help you."

The bottom line: Simple precautions help ensure celebrations remain fun and safe for everyone. For safety advice, visit the StayWise or Spark websites. Report product safety concerns to Trading Standards via Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0808 223 1133.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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Has Fabio Wardley's 'dream' Portman Road fight moved one step closer?

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Ipswich.co.uk Logomark in a circle

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We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

The British heavyweight champion and diehard Ipswich Town fan could see his ambition to fight at his beloved club become reality after a new licence application.

Why it matters: Ipswich Town Football Club has applied for a variation of its licence at Portman Road. The application has requested boxing or wrestling entertainment to take place between 12:00 and 22:30 on Sundays to Thursdays, as well as 12:00 to 23:00 on Fridays and Saturdays.

West Stand at Portman Road stadium in Ipswich
West Stand at Portman Road stadium in IpswichHolly Woodard-Williams

What they're saying: Speaking with the BBC, an ITFC spokesperson said: "Following infrastructure improvements to Portman Road over the past couple of years, it will not be uncommon for the stadium to apply for various licences to host events across different sectors; this is just one of many that will start to appear."

For context: British heavyweight champion and Ipswich Town fan Fabio Wardley said it was his "dream" to fight at the ground.

In October 2024, Wardley told BBC Radio Suffolk he wanted to fight at Portman Road, saying: "It's still the dream and it's on the cards".

"If anything it's closer than ever now because being with Frank Warren my promoter, he's done stadium shows before and he knows how to put them on.

"When it happens is still a massive question but pieces are definitely falling into place for this."

Fabio Wardley at Portman Road stadium in Ipswich
Fabio Wardley at Portman Road stadium in IpswichAlamy

The bigger picture: Ipswich Town chief executive, Mark Ashton, said in November 2024 that the club had been in discussion with Wardley about appearing at the ground and that it was in the "pipeline" but not "imminent".

The details: The club has also requested to be permitted to include live music performances, playing of recorded music, dance performances as well as alcohol sales and late night refreshments.

Portman Road underwent a series of improvements last summer to prepare the ground for Premier League football, including new media facilities, more executive boxes and the introduction of safe standing areas at the ground for the first time.

What's next: Posters advertising the change have been put up in the area around the ground with people able to have their say on the change until 24 April.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

We can't do this without you!

If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

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