For any one else considering  such an event 
 ALDI & LIDEL ( if you have then near by )  have a £10 ish pair of yellow handled "Workzone "  bolt croppers on sale  ( usually twice a year.. they can chop 1/4 inch ( 6.4 mm ) mild steel bolts like they were cheese straws . The jaws are a good close cut fit as well as beeing of quality induction hardened steel . 
I've had a pair ( £8 new ) for four or five years and can honestly say they are a darn good bargain