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