What are the rules on Bonfire Night 2020? Police issue update after fireworks hurled at officers and into homes in Sheffield

Bonfire Night will be different this year; organised displays have been cancelled across the city and the country will be under a second national lockdown.

But the demand on South Yorkshire Police and the work officers are undertaking will be the same as previous yeart.

Last week as people were celebrating Halloween, the force said it received 280 calls reporting incidents involving fireworks being thrown at people, including at officers, into houses and gardens, vehicles and at animals.

Video emerges of yobs throwing fireworks at each other on Sheffield estate

It comes after South Yorkshire Police revealed that 17 officers were assaulted, with 15 suffering injuries, over Halloween and Bonfire Night last year.

Dark Nights Silver Commander Chief Superintendent Sarah Poolman said: “Recent events involving attacks on officers and animals that we have seen over the Halloween weekend have been on some occasions unlawful and have caused distress to law-abiding members of the public.

“Our officers, and staff in our control room are already working hard to deal with an increase in demand. Officers from neighbourhood teams and from across the force have been out patrolling in order to keep our communities safe and to face abuse or the threat of injury when they are trying to help is not acceptable.

Police make urgent request as yobs attacks SWANS with fireworks at Sheffield pond

“Most reports we have seen coming into our control room are those involving youths. Last weekend, youths threw lit fireworks into a police car while our officers were in it.

"Thankfully the officers managed to get out of the vehicle unharmed but this could have been a lot worse. Damage was caused to the car, which had to be taken off the road while being repaired.

“Youths were also reported to be aiming lit fireworks at swans at Frecheville Pond. Teenagers located nearby were searched and one was found to be in possession of fireworks, he was referred to the Youth Offending Team.

“Parents are responsible for their children and I continue to urge you to speak to them about the dangers of fireworks and the results of their actions, gaining a criminal record at a young age can have serious implications for their future.”

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.