‘Hartlepool Six’ to light up town’s sky on Bonfire Night

Six beams of light, dubbed The Hartlepool Six, will pierce the darkness from 5pm until 10pm on Thursday, November 5.

The searchlights are to be sited at six different locations, and have been arranged by Hartlepool Borough Council with the aim of providing some solace to local residents in these tough times.

Coun Christopher Akers-Belcher, Chair of the Council’s Regeneration Services Committee and Portfolio Holder for Culture, said: “As we continue to battle the pandemic, the Hartlepool Six will represent solidarity amongst the darkness.

“These past few months have reminded us that we’re stronger together and what better way to represent that than by sending these beams of light into the sky which, weather permitting, will be visible to people across Hartlepool.

“Whether it is from their front windows, their gardens or by taking a short stroll out, we hope people will look out for the lights which will be a strong reminder of what we’re missing and, crucially, why we’re missing it.”

Residents are reminded that whichever way they intend to look out for the lights they must observe the COVID-19 restrictions that are in place.

They are also being urged to follow at all times guidance on washing their hands regularly, wearing a face covering and maintaining a safe distance.

Concerns were raised at a meeting of Cleveland Fire Authority earlier this month about preparations ahead of Bonfire Night in the absence of organised displays.

Chief Fire Officer Ian Hayton said work was already under way to make the period as safe as possible for firefighters and residents, including removing hoardings of items which could be a fire risk or used for bonfires, cracking down on illegal fireworks, and working with partners to tackle any abuse towards staff.

He said: “There is plenty of work going on, it has already started to actually move the hoardings where we can, and the police and the enforcement teams will be ensuring that the restrictions that are applied due to Covid-19 and tier two are adhered to.”

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