Donnington Bonfire organisers respond to safety concerns after stabbing at previous event
The date for this year’s event has been confirmed
The organisers of a major bonfire event have hit back at claims over safety.
This week has seen the team behind Donnington Bonfire, one of Telford’s busiest and long-running outdoor events, confirm this year’s date.
But, in a follow-up post the organisers have also commented on social media commentary over safety at the event, known locally as ‘Donny Bonny’.
It comes after a 20-year-old man was stabbed at last year’s bonfire, with a 21-year-old charged with attempted murder as a result.
In the post the organisers voiced concern at “inaccurate claims” and stressed that last year’s incident was the first of its nature in the 40 years the celebration has been taking place.
They added that there will be “enhanced security and entry procedures” for this year’s event.
The post said: “Following last year’s incident, there was understandably a lot of discussion on social media.
“Alongside genuine concerns, however, there were also inaccurate claims that last year’s incident is a regular occurrence at Donnington Bonfire.
“We want to set the record straight. Donnington Bonfire has been running for 40 years, and last year’s event was the first incident of this nature in the history of the event.
“Safety has always been priority when planning the event. We have always worked closely with Telford & Wrekin Council, the emergency services, security and other relevant organisations when planning the event.”
The post says safety “is a priority” and that despite always “being a major part” of the event, further measures will be in place.
It states: “Following last year’s incident, we have naturally reviewed our arrangements with the relevant organisations and made further improvements.
“This year, visitors will see enhanced security and entry procedures, together with strengthened arrangements for crowd management and emergency response.
“We appreciate that some of these measures may mean additional checks or slightly longer entry times, but they are there for everyone’s protection.
“So while last year’s incident was serious, it should not be allowed to create a false impression of Donnington Bonfire’s 40-year history.
“Safety has always been a major part of how this event is planned and managed — and it remains our priority.”
This year’s event will be taking place on Saturday, November 14, at the usual venue of Broadoaks Playing Field.