Communities secretary Eric Pickles has launched a guide designed to prevent ‘municipal killjoys’ and ‘health and safety zealots’ from spoiling Bonfire Night.

It includes practical tips on dos and don’ts for fireworks parties and bonfires along with a potted history on Guy Fawkes.

Mr Pickles said the aim was to provide advice and information for local communities planning to celebrate ‘a great British tradition’

He said: ‘This new guide challenges the municipal killjoys and health and safety zealots who want to stop bonfires and fireworks. The public should be encouraged to celebrate this day in the traditional way, together with some common sense tips to ensure a safe and fun evening.

‘Important occasions like this bring people together across colour, class and creed. Britain is stronger as a nation when we celebrate these ties and traditions that bind our country together.’