WEST Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service (WYFRS) is urging people not to host events or have bonfires at private properties this Bonfire Night, as we slowly begin to approach 5 November.

The service has asked that people across the county mark the occasion safely, abiding by coronavirus restrictions and sticking to social distancing rules.

WYFRS has also reminded people that garden bonfires can "easily get out of control", posing a "serious risk", and has encouraged responsible celebrations.

On its website, it said: "This Bonfire Night, West Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service is urging people NOT to host events or have bonfires at their own private property.

"Due to coronavirus, Bonfire Night will be celebrated differently, with many of the usual organised events not going ahead.

"WYFRS is not trying to ruin anyone’s fun, but please do not host an event - abide by local restrictions and practice social distancing this bonfire season.

"We want everyone to enjoy the bonfire season responsibly and encourage families NOT to host their own bonfires or events.

"Garden bonfires can so easily get out of control. Not only do these pose a serious risk to yourself, your family and the public, but they also take our crews away from other potentially life-threatening incidents.

"A great deal of work goes into preparing neighbourhoods for the bonfire period, in order to clear any potential fuel for arsonists.

"Last year we received over 500 emergency calls on the evening of Bonfire Night alone. 66 of the incidents that we attended were bonfire-related.

"We’ll be sharing safety messages throughout the bonfire season, so be sure to follow us across all our social media channels."