The council works closely with the fire service and local partner agencies to raise awareness of the risks and dangers associated with bonfires and fireworks.

So, at this time of year a dedicated bonfire ‘hit squad’ is set up in all four areas across South Lanarkshire to safely dismantle and remove unauthorised bonfires being built on council land.

And as well as the public letting us know of hazardous sites, council workers out in the community and our Community Wardens mobile CCTV van will also be on the lookout for potential problems for the ‘hit squads’ to tackle with known hot spots being closely monitored right up to Bonfire Night itself.

Councillor John Anderson, the chair of the council’s Community and Enterprise Resources Committee, said: “Everyone enjoys these special celebrations at this time of year but nobody wants a fun night out to end out with someone being injured or even killed.”

“This initiative to remove unauthorised bonfires is a great example of how the council works with partners to tackle Anti-Social Behaviour and demonstrates how effective partnership working can be in achieving real results in our communities.”

Anyone with any concerns over bonfires in their community are asked during office hours to ring 0303 123 1020 (Monday to Thursday 8.45am – 4.45 pm and Friday 8.45am – 4.15pm) or outwith these hours to contact our 24-hour hotline on 0800 242024 and our bonfire hit squads will investigate.

Councillor Anderson added: “We urge everyone to attend only well organised, official bonfire events where you know you can enjoy the bonfires and fireworks safely and enjoyably.”