Why are people setting off fireworks and flares from London bridges? | UK News

Passerbys in central London were shocked to see yellow and red fireworks and flares set off on a major bridge last night.

Albert Bridge was set alight and sent some of the explosives over into Thames and on passing boats.

Metropolitan Police were called to the scene around 11pm yesterday evening – as many were puzzled about what the group was celebrating.

Some flares appeared to land on a passing Uber Boat and buildings.

The group which set off the flares had left the area by the time authorities arrived, leaving their identity a mystery.

Some on social media have speculated that the fireworks could have been a belated celebration from Spanish football fans, who won the Euros on Sunday night.

The London Fire Brigade said in a statement: ‘We encourage people to attend organised fireworks displays instead of using fireworks privately, but if you do choose to use fireworks, make sure you have enough space, buy them from a reputable, licensed seller and always look for a CE mark to make sure they’re safe.

‘Never drink alcohol and set off fireworks and don’t throw fireworks or return to a firework once it has been lit.

‘Remember that fireworks are explosives, and as such should be treated with respect and only used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and the Firework Code.’

One social media user posted: ‘One of the flares landed on the Uber Boat and seemed to keep burning for a while.

‘Fireworks shooting all over the place and police and fire turned up minutes later. Definitely not an official thing.’