A SAFETY campaign is urging communities to play their part in tackling illegal street fires ahead of bonfire night by reporting piles of wood or rubbish

Operation Good Guy involves the emergency services, the council and housing associations.

Street bonfires are often linked to anti-social behaviour and can cause widespread damage if lit near fences or property.

Last year the campaign helped cut nuisance behaviour by five per cent in November and reduce the number of deliberate secondary fires by 66.4 per cent, said a council spokesperson.

Trading standards officers are also urging retailers to restrict selling fireworks to help cut down on noise pollution and misuse.

Councillor Richard McCauley cabinet member for community safety said: “No one is trying to be a killjoy but street bonfires can be dangerous and unpredictable. We want residents to enjoy bonfire night safely and are encouraging everyone to attend organised firework displays.”

St Helens fire chief Chris Case said: “Our key message this year is stay safe and have fun. We want to drive down deliberate, anti-social, nuisance fires during the bonfire period but we need help from people in the community to do this.”

He stressed the importance of storing wheelie bins securely and leaving them out only on the day of collection.

The council’s free Spark in the Park firework display takes place on Wednesday, November 5 at Sherdley Park.

For more information about the Good Guy campaign visit safersthelens.org.uk