Plain-clothed police officers will be on patrol across Tyneside on Bonfire Night to prevent a repeat of the disorder that broke out on North Shields' Meadow Well estate last November 5, when hooded groups threw fireworks and set fires near homes.
Last year's Guy Fawkes celebrations on the estate were described as being "like a War Zone" as fireworks were hurled between groups. A three-year-old girl was injured when a firework exploded under her buggy, and passing cars were targeted with missiles.
Police vow tough action
Det Chief Insp Sarah Robson, of Northumbria Police, said: "Our ultimate priority is to ensure that everyone enjoys the Bonfire Night period safely. We know at this time of year some people can feel anxious or intimidated by the darker nights and the activities which go alongside this, so we'd ask that people are considerate of others and take responsibility for themselves and those around them."
She added: "Therefore, as part out of multi-agency operation, we'll be carrying out regular patrols in areas where planned events occur and where we know people tend to gather. The overwhelming majority of people are a credit to themselves and their local area. However, a minority of individuals can sometimes create pockets of disorder, and we'd like to reiterate that this type of behaviour simply won't be tolerated. Plain-clothed and uniformed officers will be on patrol across the force over the coming weeks to deal with any incidents and offenders will face swift action."
Child's trauma after firework attack
The firework that exploded under the buggy of three-year-old Nevaeh Porter-Baggott left her with burns on her face, hands and under her ear. Her mother, Freya Keenan, said the family would be staying home this Bonfire Night.
"I'm dreading it this year I think we are just going to have a little fire in the back garden and have a chilled night. I hope she can still enjoy it a bit," Freya said. "Nevaeh seems to be alright for now but I'm worried it's going to bring back the trauma. If she hears a firework she will start talking about it, but she doesn't just come out with it. She's alright if she hears them in the house, but if she goes out and there's a bang she runs back in."
Freya said her daughter, now four, is still living with the impact of the attack. "She's still having problems with her ears. I have had her at the doctors a couple of times and they are going to refer her for hearing tests. School's saying she's complaining about load noises."
Residents describe 'war zone' scenes
Dave Shaw, who lives on Waterville Road close to where many fireworks were set off, said he saw young people putting barriers in the road to slow or stop cars, which were then pelted with fireworks.
He said: "They put a plank of wood across the road to stop the traffic, and as the cars were slowing down they were throwing fireworks at the cars. There were about 25 of them here last night, letting fireworks off and setting fires. One of the lads got burnt. The police did eventually turned up. They moved the stuff off the road and then drove off. As soon as they seen the police car they were off in all directions."
Cheryl Young, who was working at the One Stop convenience store on Waterville Road, said the shop had to close early after someone smashed the front door. "It was like a war zone," said Cheryl. "I have worked here so long I'm used to it by now. We closed early because the kids kicked the door in."
Police are encouraging the public to attend only organised and licensed firework displays, and reminding people that only those aged 18 or over are allowed to buy fireworks, which can have potentially devastating effects if used incorrectly.
Chief Insp Robson added: "We want to send out a clear message to the communities we serve – enjoy the next few weeks in a safe and respectful manner, stay safe, and please know that we will take robust action against anyone found to be involved in any form of disruptive and potentially criminal behaviour."
