Two Arrested After Unauthorised Firework Display on Hammersmith Bridge

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Believed to have been a celebration of an Algerian football team

The display as viewed from the Barnes side of the river . Picture: Brendan Smith

August 4, 2025

Two men have been arrested on suspicion of arson following an unauthorised fireworks display on Hammersmith Bridge on Sunday night (2 August).

About 50 people gathered on the bridge to see flares and fireworks let off in what is believed to have been a celebration of the anniversary of an Algerian football club.

Still ignited fireworks landed in the grounds of St. Paul’s Boys School in Barnes setting a hedge alight. 80 people called London Fire Brigade after becoming concerned about the extent of the display which began at around 9.45pm. Six fire engines were sent to the scene.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said, "We were called at 21:48 yesterday (August 3) to reports of a fire near Lonsdale Road, SW13.

“Firefighters attended and discovered a hedge fully alight. The fire was safely extinguished by crews by around 22:30. The fire is believed to have been caused by a stray firework or flare."

Hammersmith and Fulham Council CCTV monitoring team passed footage to the police showing the group, some of which made their way back to Lyric Square after the display. The two men, aged 18 and 22, arrested were detained here.

Some of the group were seen wearing red football shirts and the fireworks and flares were predominantly red. Around this time a year ago a similar display was held a year ago on the Millennium Bridge and Blackfriars bridges. It was reported at the time that this was to mark the anniversary of Mouloudia Club d'Alger, which was founded on 7 August 1921 and plays in red and green. A stray firework landed in The Globe Theatre prompting the evacuation of the audience from the building.

CCTV still showing the display from the Hammersmith end of the bridge. Picture: H&F Council

A spokesperson for the Met said, "At 21:47hrs on Sunday, 3 August officers and the London Fire Brigade responded to reports of a large disturbance near Hammersmith Bridge, SW13.

"It was established there had been instances of fireworks and flares being set off.

"A bush fire at St Paul’s School, Barnes, caused by the fireworks, was put out by the London Fire Brigade. There were no reported injuries.

"Two men, aged 22 and 18, were arrested on suspicion of arson. They both remain in police custody.

"Anyone with information, photos and video footage that might help police with this investigation can call 101 referencing CAD 6861/03AUG.

"To remain completely anonymous you can also call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org."

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