‘No Wristband, No Entry’ Seaham Bonfire Night Outrage
Written by Jodie Sowerby on 1st November 2022
Residents from across the North East take to social media to share outrage after popular bonfire night event limited to local residents only.
Credit: Alamy
Last year thousands of families flocked to County Durham to witness the breathtaking show at the cherished yearly event. However, many returning visitors face disappointment as this year’s bonfire night show will be open to the residents of Seaham only.
To “prevent cancellation,” the Seaham Town Council stated that the event was designated for “Seaham residents exclusively” and that they had to take “additional safety measures.”
The limitation, according to the council, will “decrease the traffic congestion” on the A19 and nearby roads.
However, even for the lucky residents of Seaham, entry is not as simple as in previous years. Wristband’s must be presented in order to enjoy the festivities.
But, in order to receive a wristband, visitors must present proof of residency, such as a utility bill or a council tax statement. The council said that wristbands will be checked on-site and that anyone arriving without one would be denied entrance to a front of stage view.
As a result, residents of the surrounding area took to social media to describe it as “unfair” and ” a total disgrace”.
One user said: ” I was born and bred in Seaham, moved to Sunderland last year, so my family can attend the event but I cant! This is disgraceful!”
While another wrote: ” The council want to be ashamed, most their money comes from locals outside of Seaham in these types of events! They want to be kidding!”
The council advised residents to walk instead of driving because parking “would be restricted” in most places and parking cones will be in place starting at 10:00 a.m. There will be road restrictions, but Spectrum Business Park and the car boot field both provide places where you can park and stroll.
Did you attend the event last year? Are you able to attend it again this year? Let us know and tag us in your pictures @sparksunderland on Instagram
