Maurice Bradley MLA, and PUP Councillor Russell Watton have praised Community Leaders in Windyhall for their foresight in replacing the 11th night bonfire with a beacon.
In a joint statement they said,
“Positive talks have been on-going throughout the year and the dangers of carcinogenic fumes from burning tyres, they agreed to explore other options.
“Following talks with a beacon was decided as a trial and so far, it has received warm support throughout the area.
“Bonfires have become a bone of contention in local communities, getting ever bigger and still containing tyres.
“A smaller more controlled bonfire in the form of a beacon gives the community a better chance for everyone to attend and celebrate the 12th July.
“Perhaps other areas in Coleraine will follow the lead set by Windyhall bonfire committee and investigate options other than a massive bonfire. They last thing we want to do is poision or cause illness within our own community.”
