A MASSIVE car crash on the M5 which claimed the lives of seven people, including a couple from Newport, may be putting people off organising fireworks displays.

This is the view expressed by councillors and sports club officials as a possible explanation for the lack of organised fireworks displays in Gwent this year.

Abertillery, Brynmawr, Cwmbran and Risca are just some of the places where no bonfire party or fireworks display will take place, and no large central display is organised in Newport.

Councillor Debbie Harvey, who represents Alway ward in Newport, said that money is also a factor for many people, both organisers and those who attend.

Cllr Bob Poole, member for Shaftesbury ward, said fireworks may be going out of fashion and many former organisers now“can’t afford to do it”.

Member for Langstone, David Atwell said: “To be honest after the accident that took place last year it has tended to frighten people.

I feel so sorry for them and the rugby club.” Colin Wilks, secretary at Risca Rugby Club, agreed.

He said: “The crash on the M5 has put a lot of people off, people are just being a bit nervous about it.”

The high cost of insurance for events involving fireworks, bonfires and children attending, is also a factor, he said.

Geoffrey Counsell, from Somerset, was charged with seven counts of manslaughter last month after he organised a fireworks display at Taunton Rugby Club on November 4 last year, next to the M5.

He is due to appear before Bristol Magistrates’ Court on November 12.

Avon and Somerset Police and the Crown Prosecution Service issued a joint statement saying it was clear there was insufficient evidence to prosecute for any driver error and no action will be taken against any motorists.

The statement also said there is insufficient evidence for a realistic prospect of conviction against Taunton Rugby Club.

Seven people were killed, including Newport grandparents Anthony and Pamela Adams, and 51 injured in the crash that involved 34 vehicles.