Let us crack down on flares, council tells government

Liverpool Council has urged the government to hand down more powers to deal with smoke bombs and flares, after a report found 23 people were burned during last year's Liverpool FC title parade.

Leader Liam Robinson made the call after it was found at least 12 children and teenagers were injured as a result of pyrotechnic devices.

Robinson wrote to Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood asking her to give town halls more power to deal with high-risk situations, following the publication of a report into the planning of the 26 May 2025 parade, which was marred by over 100 fans being injured when Paul Doyle drove a car into crowds.

"Liverpool has a proud history of hosting major events, with many more scheduled over the next few years, it's important that we learn lessons from each event," Robinson said.

The independent report found planning for the Liverpool FC victory parade was "detailed and effective" and the city "could and should" hold events of its kind again.

Author Eric Stuart said it had been "by far the largest football parade of its kind held within the city, and perhaps within the country, in recent years."

Writing to Mahmood, Robinson said: "I have accepted all the recommendations that are directed to us locally.

"Mr Stuart also makes a series of recommendations that requires action at a national level."

The council leader used the letter to push the Home Secretary for additional powers for local authorities like Liverpool.

He said: "National legislation does not currently allow local authorities to address high-risk situations in large crowds, including sufficient powers to remove dangerous scaffolding or other risks at height, or to prevent the use of flares and smoke devices.

"I hope you will seriously consider these recommendations and ensure that the experience and expertise developed here in Liverpool is available to support other major events.

"The safety of the public is paramount, and our shared objective is that moments of great local and national celebration can continue to be enjoyed long into the future."

Hundreds of thousands of people lined the streets of Liverpool for Liverpool FC's victory parade.

Doyle, 54, drove his Ford Galaxy into crowds on Water Street. He later pleaded guilty to 17 counts of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm with intent, nine counts of causing grievous bodily harm with intent, three counts of wounding and one count each of dangerous driving and affray.

He was jailed for 21 years and six months in December 2025.

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