Over 30 bonfire-related incidents reported in Limerick on May Eve

THERE were over 30 reports of bonfires in Limerick reported on May Eve, with smoke seen bellowing across the city overnight.

Limerick City and County Council confirmed in a statement to Limerick Live that there were around "30 calls to various bonfire-related incidents last night", Wednesday, April 30. 

"Most of the call-outs did not warrant an intervention from the fire service as the fires were under control and being monitored," a spokesperson said.

"Only six incidents required an intervention as the fires were too close to property or overhead wires."

READ ALSO: Transport firm gives update on long-derelict site in Limerick

Gardaí have also been contacted for comment.

May Eve bonfires in Ireland, particularly in Limerick, are a tradition associated with the ancient Celtic festival of Beltane, also known as May Day.

What started as a farming tradition to protect livestock, the May Eve bonfires are particularly prevalent in Limerick city, where large communities would light fires in communal areas for good luck, according to ancient folklore.