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Charity issues tips on keeping pets and animals safe during fireworks season

Emily Sanchez
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Charity issues tips on keeping pets and animals safe during fireworks season

A charity is urging pet owners across Gedling borough to be prepared for fireworks season to help keep their animals safe.

The RSPCA is advising owners to take steps now so their pets are less frightened by sudden flashes of light and loud bangs.

Celebrations often start in advance of November 5, which falls on a Sunday this year, and can continue for days or weeks afterwards, which can cause animals to run away.

The RSPCA is campaigning for a change to firework laws to protect animals.

It says thousands of pets, horses and livestock are affected with private displays often making it impossible for neighbours to take proper precautions.

Figures released by the animal welfare charity say 69 per cent of UK adults with a pet take at least one measure to help relax or prepare their animal for fireworks season.

It wants to see fireworks regulations changed to protect pets, wildlife and farm animals with limits to the use and sale of fireworks, controlled zones for their use and a reduction in the noise level for public sale of fireworks down to 90 decibels – about the same as heavy traffic or a powered lawnmower.

A 2022 Bill passed through the Scottish Parliament introduced a firework licencing system and firework control zones, in addition to the key controls on supply and use of fireworks, especially to under-18s.

The RSPCA has issued these tips to keep pets safe and calm during fireworks displays:

How to calm dogs during fireworks

Before the firework season begins

Planning ahead can help dogs cope with the fireworks season. Before the fireworks season starts, provide your dog with a doggy safe haven. This should be a quiet area, so choose one of the quietest rooms in your home – a place where they feel in control. Don’t interfere with your dog when they’re in that area.

Train your dog to associate the area with positive experiences, e.g. by leaving their favourite toys there, but not imposing yourself at any time. Use a variety of chew toys, such as stuffed Kongs and chews. Swap them regularly, putting them away when not in use so that your dog doesn’t become bored with them.

With time, dogs can learn that this place is safe and enjoyable. When fireworks go off, they may choose to go there because they know, in that place, they are safe. It’s important that your dog has access to this doggy safe haven at all times – even when you’re not at home.

Calm your pet during firework nights with Classic FM

69% of UK adults with a pet take at least one measure to help relax or prepare their animal for firework season.

Playing relaxing music is the most common. It shows why the RSPCA’s partnership with Classic FM’s pet classics is such a massive hit.

When the fireworks start

  • Walk your dog during daylight hours to avoid times when fireworks are likely to be set off.
  • Move your dog to the safe haven each evening before the fireworks begin. Provide toys and other things that they enjoy in the safe haven.
  • Make sure there are things for you to do too, so your dog isn’t left alone.
  • Close windows and curtains to muffle the sound of fireworks. Blackout your doggy safe haven, so they can’t see any flashes outside.
  • Put on some music or TV to mask the firework sounds.
  • Ignore the firework noises yourself. Play with a toy to see if your dog wants to join in, but don’t force them to play.

You could also talk to your vet about pheromone diffusers. These disperse calming chemicals into the room and may be a good option for your dog. In some cases, your vet may even prescribe medication.

How to help cats who are afraid of fireworks

  • Provide hiding places in your home .e.g. under furniture or a quiet corner.
  • Don’t stress your cat by trying to tempt them out. Leave them until they’re ready.
  • Keeping them in to avoid them becoming stressed.
  • Microchip your cats in case they’re startled and escape outside.

How to help small animals during fireworks

  • Partly cover outside cages and pens with blankets so it’s soundproofed and hidden, leaving an area for animals to look out.
  • Provide bedding for small animals to burrow in.
  • Consider bringing them indoors – this will need to be done gradually, so plan ahead.

Keeping horses safe during fireworks

It’s not just the animals in your home that can be scared of fireworks – horses can be too. If you’re a horse owner:

  • Know in advance – check to see if there are going to be any firework displays in your area.
  • Talk to the organisers – where possible, explain there are horses nearby and ask them to set off their fireworks in the opposite direction.
  • Get advice from the British Horse Society (BHS) – for top tips on keeping your horse safe and secure during the firework season

How to treat firework phobia

Firework phobia is a treatable condition and animals don’t have to suffer every year. Seek advice from your vet who will, if necessary, be able to refer you to a professional clinical animal behaviourist. Never punish your pets when they’re scared, as this will only make things worse in the long run. 

How you can help reduce the impact of fireworks on animals

If you want to enjoy fireworks, you can make them less frightening for animals in the following ways:

  • Going to an organised event will reduce the number of fireworks disturbing animals.
  • Please only let fireworks off on or around traditional celebration dates (Diwali, Bonfire Night, New Year’s Eve and Chinese New Year). Most owners will already know to expect fireworks on these dates and should have prepared accordingly to help their animals cope. Look for low-noise fireworks, and let your neighbours know well in advance so animals including horses and livestock, can be prepared.
  • Never set off fireworks near livestock, as frightened animals – especially horses – can injure themselves when frightened.
  • Remember, fireworks can also disturb wildlife so steer clear of known habitats like lakes with waterfowl and trees with roosting birds.
  • Check bonfires for wildlife before lighting as animals like hedgehogs may be hibernating.

What You Need to Know About Finding the Best Business Location – in Gedling or Anywhere Else!

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What You Need to Know About Finding the Best Business Location – in Gedling or Anywhere Else!

Starting a new business is an exciting venture indeed, but one of the most crucial decisions you’ll need to make is choosing the right location. Whether you’re considering Gedling or any other place, the location of your business can significantly impact its success. So what do you need to know, and what are the key factors you need to consider when finding the best business location? Let’s have a look.

  1. Understand your target market

The first step in selecting the ideal business location is understanding your target market. Who are your potential customers, and where are they located? For instance, if you plan to open a trendy coffee shop, you might want to consider a location near universities or office complexes where young professionals and students frequently gather. Knowing your target market will help you narrow down your options and find a location accessible to your customer base.

  • Demographics and competition

Demographics play a vital role in your location choice, as confirmed by www.cariocca.com, a premier supplier of serviced offices. Gedling, for example, may have a different demographic profile compared to a bustling city like Manchester. Evaluate the age, income, and lifestyle of the local population. Consider the competition as well – if you’re opening a restaurant, assess the number of restaurants in the area. A competitive market can be a sign of demand, but it can also make it challenging to stand out.

  • Accessibility and visibility

Accessibility is key to a business’s success. Your location should be easily reachable by both customers and employees. Consider proximity to major highways, public transportation, and parking availability. Visibility is also crucial! A location easily visible from the street or in a high foot traffic area can attract more customers.

  • Cost considerations

The cost of your business location is a significant factor. Rental or lease costs can vary greatly depending on the area and type of property. Gedling might offer more affordable options compared to prime locations in a major city, but consider your budget and how the location cost will fit into your overall business plan. It’s also essential to account for other expenses like utilities, insurance, and property maintenance.

  • Foot traffic

Foot traffic is vital for many retail and service-based businesses. If your business relies on walk-in customers, choose a location with high foot traffic. Analyse the flow of people during different times of the day and week – some areas may have higher foot traffic during certain seasons or events, so factor that into your decision-making process.

  • Infrastructure and amenities

Consider the infrastructure and amenities available in the area. High-speed internet, reliable utilities, and transportation options are essential for most businesses. Additionally, check for nearby amenities like banks, post offices, and other services that can streamline your business operations.

  • Future growth

Your business location should accommodate your future growth plans. Ensure that the space you choose has room for expansion if needed. A location that can grow with your business can save you the hassle and cost of relocating in the future!

  • Local support

Lastly, consider the local business community and networking opportunities in the area. Gedling, like many other places, may have business associations and networking groups that can provide valuable support and resources for your business. Being part of a supportive local business community can be a significant advantage. Good luck!

Match Report: Bridlington Town 0 – 1 Carlton Town FC

Alan Murphy
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Match Report: Bridlington Town 0 – 1 Carlton Town FC

NPL First Division East – 28 October 2023

A first half goal from Lamin Sisawo-Danso saw Carlton Town climb into the top three of the table with a 1-0 win at Bridlington Town.

The win, Carlton’s fifth in six away matches this season, was fully deserved after a fine second half display which should have brought more goals.  What was particularly impressive was that the side featured three debutants, including two new centre-halves after the reliable pairing of Dan Brown and Dean Freeman were both ruled out through injury.  The fact that their absence was rarely noticed spoke volumes about the performance level of their replacements and was a key factor in the win.

Brown had started and finished an astonishing 117 of the previous 119 Carlton Town games before going off injured at half time in the defeat against Stocksbridge last time out.  With Freeman also unavailable Mark Harvey and Tommy Brookbanks gave a first start of the season to Sisawo-Danso and brought in Peter Dearle on loan from Basford to play alongside him.

With Khyle Sargent still suspended, the third debutant was midfielder Ahmed Tahar, signed in midweek from Northern Counties side Parkgate, and brought in to replace Michael Ford.  Also brought into the side was David Adegbola in place of the suspended Shea-Thompson-Harris.  The bench featured another new signing, Oliver Seeby.

Lamin Manneh had Carlton’s first chance but his early 20-yard drive flew just wide of the post.  At the other end Felix Annan made a fine stop from an Ali Aydemir free kick.

Neither side created a great deal in a fairly tepid opening half hour but Annan did make a top-drawer save from Ayedmir on 29 minutes to prevent the hosts from taking the lead.

The key moments of the game came on 40 minutes.  Niall Hylton was brought down on the edge of the box by Jack Walters for a Carlton free kick.  Niall Davie’s free kick was handled by Walters for a Carlton penalty.  Up stepped Davie but his well-hit spot kick struck the inside of James Hitchcock’s right hand post and flew away from goal.  Carlton regained possession immediately and were awarded a free kick on the left.  Davie sent in a lovely cross which Sisawo-Danso powerfully headed beyond Hitchcock and into the net to the delight of the travelling support.

The goal clearly energised the Millers and in particular Manneh who was a constant thorn in the side of Bridlington in the second half.  On 47 minutes he shot just wide before another Manneh run led to an Alex Howes shot which was well saved by Hitchcock.

Davie was then brought down by Jack Bulless but Manneh put the resultant free kick wide.

Tahar was having an effective game in the middle of the pitch and Sisawo-Danso and Dearle were solid at the back, ably supported by Adegbola and Lewis Durow.

Carlton were desperately close to doubling their lead on the hour when Manneh crossed from the left for Alex Hardwick to volley at goal from close range, only to be denied by a fabulous save from Hitchcock.

Minutes later Bridlington responded and Annan made another good save, this time from Andy Norfolk before the Millers keeper had to save again from a deflected Peter Davidson effort.

A lovely Carlton move involving Manneh, Hardwick, Hylton and Adegbola ended with Manneh firing just over the top.  Indeed, for all Carlton’s good approach play, the final ball or final shot was just lacking.

Tahar had to be alert to break up one dangerous Bridlington attack before Annan saved comfortably from George Harrison who might have done better.

Musa Jawarra was brought on and he almost scored with his first touch following a Durow throw-in before Howes hit the post with a volley following a rebound from a Davie shot.

Jawarra then headed over the top from close range after a Hylton cross from the right before Bridlington’s final effort saw Annan save well from Glen Sani.  Carlton saw out six minutes of added time to secure the perfect response to last week’s defeat.  At the final whistle the players came across to celebrate with the healthy contingent of travelling supporters.

Carlton Town: F Annan, D Adegbola, L Durow, L Sisawo-Danso, P Dearle, A Tahar, L Manneh, N Davie, A Hardwick (M Jawarra 73), A Howes, N Hylton. Unused subs:  Z Hill, O Seeby

Goals: Lamin Sisawo-Danso 40

Carlton Town Supporters Club MOTM: Felix Annan

Att: 228

BLIND EYE PRODUCTIONS: Highlighting things that people turn a ‘Blind Eye’ to in society.

Justin Doddy
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BLIND EYE PRODUCTIONS: Highlighting things that people turn a ‘Blind Eye’ to in society.

Blind Eye was founded in 2018 by like minded people with a clear vision – to highlight things that people turn a ‘Blind Eye’ to in society. 

As a company Blind Eye recognises the strong link between positive mental well-being and theatre and aim to perform one play and one musical a year.

Lindsey Hemingway, Secretary and Treasurer for the group told Gedling Eye: “Our objective is to create a healthy and safe space for members of our community to explore their interests in theatre.”

She joined the Blind Eye team in its infancy back in 2017 and has enjoyed the challenge along with the Blind Eye team of setting up a new production company and being its Secretary and Treasurer. 

The Blind Eye team team also includes John McCormack (Chairman), Stephanie Timbol (Social Media Manager), Adam Chapman (Fundraising Manager / Mental Well Being Champion), Paul Duffy (A/V Manager) and Beth Duffy (Marketing Manager / Safeguarding Manager).

So far Lindsey has taken part in all of Blind Eye’s Productions and is loving every moment.

Lindsey has been an active member of various groups around Nottingham for many years, after first joining The Bonington Players at aged 20 and has enjoyed acting, singing and dancing in many productions over the years, as well as taking on stage management and directing in more recent years, all of which she takes great pleasure in undertaking.

Lindsey added: “We work to promote the benefits of theatre and how it can help to build confidence and skill sets as well as offering the opportunity to meet and work with new people, working towards a shared goal.

“We are proud of accomplishments as well as raising awareness and funds for the mental well-being charity Mind. We are also proud to be a nominated Charity for the Local Co-Op charities.”

Blind Eye rehearse every Sunday at the Arnold Community Centre from 16:30 until 20:30 with recent productions including Calendar Girls, May 2023 performed at the Bonington Theatre, Arnold, A Christmas Carol, November 2022 performed at The Duchess Theatre, Long Eaton and The Three Musketeers, May 2022 performed at The Bonington Theatre.

Next up is ‘Gypsy’ based upon the autobiography (1957) of Gypsy Rose Lee, original name Rose Louise Hovick who was one of the most famous burlesque artists in 1930s America.

Next year’s performances include A Streetcar Named Desire in May 2024 and The Wind in the Willows – Musical in November 2024.

Gypsy will run from November 22 to 25 and full details including purchasing tickets, cast members and future performances can be found on Blind Eye’s social media HERE.

Gedling Lotto results: Winning numbers for Saturday, October 28, 2023

Gedling Eye Reporter
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Gedling Lotto results: Winning numbers for Saturday, October 28, 2023

There is a chance to win up to £25,000 every Saturday when you play Gedling Lotto.

You just need to match six numbers to win the £25,000 jackpot.

We now publish the winning numbers each Saturday night.

THIS WEEK’S WINNING NUMBERS (28/10/23)

3 9 7 9 6 0

How does Gedling Lotto work?

Gedling Lotto is a weekly lottery draw that raises money for good causes across Gedling Borough. All good causes supported by the lottery will benefit the Gedling Borough and its residents.

Play the lottery, support Gedling Borough – it’s that simple!

From every £1 ticket you buy, 60p will go to local good causes in the Gedling Borough and improve our community.

Some of the many causes to benefit from the Lotto include:

  • Arnbrook Primary School
  • Arnold Swimming Club
  • Gedling Play Forum
  • Gedling Conservation Trust
  • Lambley Village Cricket Club
  • This is Gedling Magazine

Gedling Eye supports the This is Gedling 100% Independent NfP FREE Magazine and you can buy tickets here: https://www.gedlinglotto.co.uk/support/gedling

There is a chance to win up to £25,000 every Saturday when you play Gedling Lotto.

You just need to match six numbers to win the £25,000 jackpot.

Gedling Eye now publish the winning numbers each Saturday night.

ANYONE FOR PIZZA? Gedling pub donates FORTY pizzas to local charity

Justin Doddy
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ANYONE FOR PIZZA? Gedling pub donates FORTY pizzas to local charity

Popular local pub and eatery The Gedling Inn have donated 40 pizzas to kids and their families in Netherfield during half term.

Beccy Webster who took over the reigns at the Gedling Inn in 2019 aiming to bring back the community spirit to the Gedling pub told Gedling Eye: “We as a team at The Gedling inn wanted to do something to support families during half term so we contacted the St George’s centre in Netherfield as we know the amazing work they do there and discussed options of how we could help.

“We wanted to make it something fun for the children that they could then share with their siblings and family so came to the decision we would make pizzas and donate them to families at the end of their work shop.”

She added: “We as a company and a team realise that times are hard everywhere and it’s nice to give back to the community. They had a full day of fun at the St George’s centre with Tina (Simpson) and the team”.

PHOTO: The Gedling Inn

Tina Simpson, overall winner of ‘The Pride of Gedling‘ award in 2022 for her community work said on social media “Thank you so much to the Gedling Inn for turning up with FREE PIZZA for 40 children to take home for their tea and to share with their family.

“You are truly amazing, the photo tells a thousand words with all those happy faces and this is only a fraction of the pizza as half of the children had already gone home.”

Beccy and the team at The Gedling Inn carry out their community work throughout the year and next up for popular pub and eatery is their annual homeless collection.

The team collect sleeping bags, socks, scarfs and hats, food such as crisps or snacks and toiletries such as baby wipes, sprays etc. They then make bags up and walk around the town centre to give them out.

Pictured: The Gedling Inn following a recent facelift (FACEBOOK)

If you would like to support the annual homeless collection you can find further information and contact details on their social media HERE.

The Gedling Inn can be found at 50 Main Road, Gedling, NG4 3HL.

Customising Your Fabric Curtains for the Home

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Customising Your Fabric Curtains for the Home

Curtains do more than just block light and provide privacy. They’re a statement of style, a reflection of taste, and an opportunity to showcase the texture, colour, and patterns that complement your home decor. Understanding the value of high-quality curtains, the shop offers a stunning range of made-to-measure curtains that elevate any interior space.

A Legacy in Fabric

Situated in a historic mill in the heart of West Yorkshire, Yorkshirefabricshop pays homage to the UK’s long-standing textile industry. This isn’t just a geographical location, but a testament to the company’s commitment to upholding the quality and craftsmanship that the area is renowned for. The establishment carefully selects fabrics from around the world, ensuring that each piece meets the high standards set by generations of textile artisans.

Made-to-Measure Excellence

Standard curtains often fall short when it comes to fitting windows that are not of average dimensions. The shop’s made-to-measure service obviates this problem entirely. You can customise every element, from the fabric type to the lining and dimensions. This ensures not just a perfect fit but also a curtain that aligns flawlessly with your room’s aesthetics.

Versatility in Fabrics

The range of fabrics offered by this renowned establishment is nothing short of impressive. Whether your home decor leans towards the classic, the rustic, or the avant-garde, you’re guaranteed to find a fabric that suits your taste. From textured chenille that adds warmth to a room to vibrant tribal patchworks for a more eclectic setting, the options are virtually limitless.

Durability Meets Style

Quality curtains are an investment, and durability is a key factor that shouldn’t be overlooked. The store offers different types of linings that not only enhance the visual appeal but also improve the longevity of the curtains. Options like thermal and blackout linings also add functional benefits, such as keeping the room insulated or dark when needed.

Simple Online Shopping

The company’s well-designed website makes the shopping experience smooth and enjoyable. The intuitive layout and search features let you find what you’re looking for with ease, while a fabric calculator provides a practical tool for gauging how much material you’ll need for your custom curtains, thereby avoiding waste or shortages.

Expert Advice

Picking the right fabric for your curtains can be daunting, especially with so many options available. The store offers free fabric samples and expert consultations to help guide your choice. These additional services aim to ensure that you are absolutely satisfied with your final selection.

Easy Maintenance

A beautiful curtain is a joy, but not if it becomes a burden to maintain. The establishment addresses this by offering fabrics that are both visually stunning and easy to care for. Whether it’s materials that can be machine-washed or those that require minimal upkeep, the shop provides options that allow you to enjoy the aesthetics without worrying about tedious maintenance.

Ethical Sourcing

In a world increasingly conscious of sustainability and ethical practices, this esteemed company stands out for its commitment to responsible sourcing. Yorkshire Fabric Shop ensures that its fabrics are ethically produced, working closely with suppliers who share the same values. This means you can make a purchase with confidence that you’re contributing to a more responsible consumer cycle.

Safer Street funding to combat crime and anti-social behaviour in Woodthorpe

David Bratton
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Safer Street funding to combat crime and anti-social behaviour in Woodthorpe

New CCTV, street lighting and free home security devices will be coming to Woodthorpe as part of £1.3 million in new funding to fight crime and anti-social behaviour.

It comes after the Home Office today announced the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Nottinghamshire has been successful in a bid to receive £1 million of new Safer Streets investment, with a further £333,000 being offered by Police and Crime Commissioner Caroline Henry, for public safety schemes across Nottingham and Nottinghamshire.

Bingham, Beeston, Worksop, Balderton, Sutton-in-Ashfield and Mansfield are the other areas set to benefit from the windfall.

The project will involve working alongside Nottinghamshire Police and all eight local authorities, Ashfield District Council, Bassetlaw District Council, Broxtowe Borough Council, Gedling Borough Council, Mansfield District Council, Newark and Sherwood District Council, Nottingham City Council and Rushcliffe Borough Council.

This comes after the office had previously secured £3 million during the previous Safer Streets project, which had led to the implementation of various interventions around the county and city, including refuge point cameras, clean up days and new laptops for Police Community Support Officers.

This led to extremely positive results reported, including a 56% reduction in residential burglaries in the targeted areas in Nottingham, a 43% reduction in vehicle crime in Kirkby-in-Ashfield and a 27% reduction in antisocial behaviour in Broxtowe.

“This is brilliant news for people across the county because it means that we have even more investment coming into Nottinghamshire which will make our public places even safer when out and about,” said Commissioner Henry.

“This additional £1 million will make a real difference to people across the county as we have seen through the success of the previous Safer Streets projects. As well as preventing crime, the scheme also aims to make people feel safer too by making public spaces more welcoming.”

One of the people who benefitted from the last round of funding was 55-year-old Tracy Hunt, of Netherfield, who was so frightened after her front window was smashed that she slept downstairs for months so she could react quickly if her house was targeted again.

After receiving free home security equipment through Safer Streets, she said: “It has definitely given me peace of mind. I feel a lot better.”

ALAN BLADE: I went to see Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and loved every minute

Alan Blade
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ALAN BLADE: I went to see Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and loved every minute

A Thursday night in Nottingham’s Theatre Royal watching Chitty Chitty Bang Bang certainly was a few hours well spent as Nottingham Operatic Society put on a show to live long in the memory.

A mixture of great acting, singing, dancing and some brilliant comedy moments gelled seamlessly to an audience that applauded every scene.

The amateur musical theatre production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang was a truly magical show of a standard that would hold its own against any professional production.

The quality of the costumes and set stood out throughout and yes ….. there was a flying car!

Pictured: Mark Coffey-Bainbridge (Caractacus Potts), Freddie Vokes (Jeremy Potts) & Louise Grantham (Truly Scrumptious) (S Vokes)

The production is being performed eight times this week which meant there was a need to double up on some of the principals so if you are planning to attend you may need to check who will be on stage.

Gedling borough residents may recognise rising Burton Joyce star Freddie Vokes who was playing Jeremy Potts (on Thursday 26) as not only is he Gedling Borough’s Youth Mayor but a certain star of the future.

I enjoyed Mark Coffey-Bainbridge’s charming performance of Caractacus Potts immensely as he sung and danced his way through the show and the bond between Mark, Louise Grantham (Truly Scrumptious) Daisy Hamilton (Jemima) and Freddie Vokes (Jeremy) was evident throughout

The whole cast were excellent however special mention must go to ‘Vulgarians’ Linda Croston (Goran) and Nathan Curzon (Boris) who lit up the stage with dry wit, hilarious accents and excellent comedic timing throughout.

The show has all the songs you would expect and you are guaranteed to be clapping along with the finale.

I can fully recommend a visit to see Chitty Chitty Bang Bang if you are fortunate enough to get a ticket however please be aware that the principals are split into two incredible teams that alternate between performances.

The show runs until October 28 and tickets are available HERE.

And did I say …… the car flew!

These are your legal rights if your house is vandalised this Hallowe’en

Emily Sanchez
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These are your legal rights if your house is vandalised this Hallowe’en

The season of ‘spookiness’ is officially upon us!

As Halloween approaches, many of us are looking forward to the fun-filled celebrations that come with this beloved holiday. But what can you do if someone chooses to play a ‘trick’ and damages your property?

Sergio Abreu, Legal Adviser at DAS Law has the answers to these questions (and others) to avoid making this Halloween a legal horror story.

Is trick or treating illegal and are there any age restrictions on how old you have to be to take part?

So, “Trick or treating” is not considered an illegal act, although it is considered by some to be an “unwelcome American cultural import” and can sometimes result in incidences such as property damage, nuisance and personal injury.

Anyone can take part in Trick or Treating as there is no legal age limit on this however, the NSPCC does express for parents and children to exercise caution when they are trick or treating on their own or without parental supervision.

If a child damages your property with a ‘trick’, can you recover repair costs from the parents?

Property damage can be deemed a criminal offence as well as a civil matter. Halloween is a very busy time for the police as they can receive a high volume of calls at this time of year. Before contacting them, please consider whether the matter can be resolved amicably. However, if you are concerned about your safety then you should contact the police as soon as possible.

Generally speaking, parents or guardians are responsible for ensuring their children are supervised in certain circumstances, although this will vary depending on their age as older children are less likely to require supervision as they will have a greater responsibility for their actions.

This means that any civil action for recovery of losses due to damage caused by a child would need to be taken against the child. However, holding a child responsible for their actions may not be a realistic way forward as a child is unlikely to have assets to pursue damages, so it would be preferable for you to hold the parent or guardian responsible. 

To hold a parent or guardian responsible, you would need to prove that they have been negligent and this resulted in the child damaging your property. This would be dependent on circumstances and evidence and could include arguments such as failing to supervise or failing to control the child. The success of this argument would be dependent on proving the elements of negligence – was there a duty of care? Has that duty of care been breached? Has there been any damage as a result of that breach? Is the damage foreseeable?

How far are you allowed to go to stop a child from playing ‘tricks’ on you and your property?  

A landowner is entitled to the peaceful enjoyment of their land and protection from any unlawful interference with their use or enjoyment of it. If you are in fear for your safety and/or feel harassed, then you should contact the police straight away as these are criminal matters.

From a civil point of view, it could be argued that a regular stream of people invading your property whilst ‘trick or treating’ would amount to a legal nuisance or could amount to harassment but these arguments would be circumstantial and based on evidence.

Normally, you could look at taking legal action for nuisance for remedies such as damages and/or an injunction. If the nuisance is proven, a key question would be who could an injunction be taken out against?

Due to the transient nature of the nuisance, it would be difficult to bring a claim against a one-time offender as would be the case with Halloween. However, if someone persistently posed a nuisance, then it would be more likely to succeed in a claim against them for trespass rather than nuisance.

Can you physically intervene if an act of vandalism is taking place on your property by a minor?

I would advise against any physical interactions and if the situation escalates you should report the matter to the police.

Any property damage is potentially a criminal offence and you could threaten to report the perpetrator to the police. You could also look to take a civil claim for damages to compensate you and put you back in the position you were before the damage as discussed above.

Any physical interactions could cause the situation to escalate. If you assault an individual, this could be reported to the police, and it may be difficult to justify whether this response was reasonable in the circumstances and you could risk criminal sanctions.

If you give a child sweets for Halloween and they choke or have an allergic reaction, are you responsible?

This would of course depend on the circumstances. Assuming the sweets have not been interfered with, a claimant would have to prove that you have been negligent to hold you responsible for any injuries that occurred as a result.

To establish negligence the court will look at whether you owed the claimant a duty of care, that there has been a breach of that duty, and this has caused the claimant some kind of loss. They must also be able to prove that the loss was foreseeable.

In practical terms it may be difficult to establish negligence if you simply gave a child a sweet and they choked as this could be down to any number of reasons – for example, the child’s behaviour contributing to the incident.

The child would be assuming a certain level of risk and therefore, if any claims were brought, you would look to argue either a voluntary assumption of risk and/or contributory negligence as a defence.

However, the circumstances may be different if you give a baby or toddler sweets as they may be less likely to detect certain dangers so extra care should be taken.

The goods that I have purchased specifically for Halloween are faulty, can I return them?

If you have purchased an item and it turns out to be faulty, not fit for purpose or not as described, the Consumer Rights Act 2015 provides that you can reject such goods within the first 30 days after purchase.

If you notice any issues after 30 days of purchase, the onus will be on you to prove the above breaches and for the seller to prove that the issues raised are not inherent problems or to rebut them.

The remedies available in such instances are a repair, replacement and finally a rejection of goods. After 6 months of purchase, both the onus of proving the fault/issues and proving that these are inherent problems lies with the consumer. The best practical advice would be to act promptly to avoid complications with the seller.

Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance regarding rights and responsibilities and is not formal legal advice as no lawyer-client relationship has been created.

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