CHESHIRE East residents are being urged to ‘do the right thing’ this Halloween and Bonfire night and adhere to the strict Covid-19 restrictions now in place.

Due to a sharp rise in Covid-19 infection rates, the area has been placed in High Alert level restrictions, and Cheshire East Council is reminding households to stick to the rules. 

These include not mixing indoors with any other household and adhering to the rule of six when meeting up with others outdoors and keeping a distance of at least two metres. is best.   

Dr Matt Tyrer, director of public health for Cheshire East Council, said: “The virus can’t spread if people do the right thing and don’t get close together – this applies in all situations and must we must not let our standards slip on this. 

“If you are celebrating inside, only mix with your own household, remember to wash your hands frequently and wear a face covering where appropriate when venturing outside.”

The council is working with Cheshire Police and Cheshire Fire and Rescue to ensure residents across Cheshire East enjoy Halloween and Bonfire Night in a safe manner, within the law. 

Supt Jo Marshall-Bell, from Cheshire Police, said: “It has been a tough year for many, and we recognise that seasonal festivities are really important for mental health and wellbeing. 

“We really want you to have fun this Halloween and Bonfire Night but to do so safely, within the law and bear in mind the current situation with the pandemic. 

“I’m confident the majority of residents will stick to the rules and do all they can to celebrate Halloween safely, but there will be an increased officer presence across the county, to provide reassurance for anyone, who may have any concerns over the Halloween and Bonfire period.”

Andy Gray, from Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service, added: “Our number one priority is public safety and with organised displays cancelled this year we are concerned that people will turn to lighting fires and setting fireworks off themselves.

“Our message is clear – please do not be tempted to do so.

“Any fire can so easily get out of hand and spread to fences, sheds, properties and could cause fatal or life-changing injuries, at the same time putting extra strain on emergency services and the NHS.

"Fireworks also can be dangerous if not used correctly and safely and can cause great distress to many people and their animals, so we’d encourage people to consider safer options to celebrate the bonfire period this year.”