ORGANISERS of the town's Firework Show had to halt Friday's popular display because of dangerous gales which posed potential hazards to the huge crowds.

Every effort had been made by the council to ensure the annual Sherdley Park display took place, including a 10-minute delay to allow those arriving by car the opportunity to park. Matters were made worse by the cancellation of the major display at Liverpool's Kings Dock, which resulted in around 20,000 people gathering for the Sherdley Park event.

The firework display was started, but had to be stopped after 10 minutes because swirling winds posed possible dangers to the public.

The council says it was disappointing to have to stop the free event, but that the safety of the public is paramount and could not be compromised. Sgt. Paul Phillips, who was in charge of policing the Sherdley Park event, said: "On behalf of the police in St Helens I would like to thank everyone who attended on the evening. Despite the fireworks being called off so soon, everyone was very patient and there were no recorded incidents at all."

He also issued a warning for anyone who bought fireworks but were put off using them due to poor weather. "It is an offence to stockpile fireworks so if anyone still has them or has decided to keep them for the millennium, they must use them as quickly as possible."

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