October 30 2002, Daily Mirror, Firemen Attacked by Gang
A Firefighter was attacked by a gang of thugs who built a huge bonfire then called 999.
As the crew tackled the blaze in Coatbridge at the weekend, the officer was smacked in the back by a bottle.
According to fire chiefs, it was the second ambush of the night. In Hamilton, a crew were hit with fireworks as they fought a blaze. There has now been more than 200 attacks on firefighters this year.  John Cairns, safety officer for the Fire Brigades Union, said: "We are appalled - attacks are becoming more and more common".

October 30 2002, icCheshire Online, Firework trading checks
TRADING standards officers are carrying out spot checks across Mid Cheshire in the run-up to Bonfire Night to make sure that fireworks are not being sold to anyone under 18 years of age.
They are also warning residents not to buy fireworks if they are offered them in pubs or at car boot sales.
'Our aim is to make sure that everyone has an enjoyable November 5,' said County Cllr Larry Toale, Labour spokesman for trading standards.
'Anyone planning to use fireworks must have safety at the top of their priority list and thankfully the risk of injury is reduced as more families opt to view organised displays.
'However, for those having Bonfire Night parties at home there can never be room for complacency and I would urge everyone to follow the advice of trading standards officers and Cheshire Fire Service.'
County trading standards officer Paul McGreary said: 'Once again young people under the age of 18 are carrying out test purchases on our behalf so that we can make sure that retailers are not breaking the law.
'We are also checking that shop keepers are maintaining strict regulations for the storage of fireworks.
'We have received reports of people selling fireworks in pubs and at car boot sales and I cannot stress enough that the sellers are not licensed and their fireworks could be dangerous.
'My advice is to buy fireworks from a reputable shop.'

October 30 2002, icHuddersfield - Spare a thought for pets
PET owners are being urged to keep them safe from fireworks. Many animals are injured by fireworks each year and the noise often scares them.  Now, pet firm Pets at Home - which has a store at the Great Northern Retail Park off Leeds Road in Huddersfield - and the RSPCA are offering owners advice in the run-up to Bonfire Night.
They suggest any pets that are normally kept outside should be moved indoors.
They also say owners should avoid taking dogs out late at night, and they should keep a television switched on in the house to distract from the noise of the fireworks.
An RSPCA spokesman said: "It is best to keep animals indoors after 7pm each night, as it is after this time when people are setting off fireworks."

October 30 2002, Leeds Today, Firework yobs strike
A WAVE of firework bombs sweeping across the city has left many Leeds residents scared to leave their homes after dark. Separate firework attacks on phone boxes and post boxes are on the increase, with yobs even posting fireworks through letter boxes as part of their sick pranks.
Most recently, explosions in Ebor Gardens, Burmantoffs, and Glasshoughton, near Castleford, have highlighted the growing problem of home-made, and potentially fatal, devices.
Elderly residents in Ebor Gardens are now scared to go out at night. An 80-year-old resident of St Michaels Road, who did not wish to be named, said: "This bomb was terrible. It was a loud explosion and I wondered what on earth was going on. There are a lot of old people who live round here and they would have been frightened out of their wits. "Someone is going to be seriously hurt if things carry on like this."
A take-away pizza shop in Front Street, Glasshoughton, was also targeted when yobs put a firework between the roller shutters and the windows. The blast blew the door off its hinges at around 4am on Tuesday morning.
Andy Copley, Sub Officer at Castleford fire station , said: "In the last week or so people have been putting fireworks through letter boxes which is highly dangerous.  "The fireworks go off like explosives. If put in post boxes or letter boxes they can blow the door off."
A spokesman for West Yorkshire Police said: "These latest incidents of firework misuse are of great concern. While fireworks are on general sale to the public and fall into the hands of hooligans, sadly incidents where people act irresponsibly will occur. "We would urge people to be aware of people acting irresponsibly or illegally and for shopkeepers to be aware of their responsibilities."

October 30 2002, Leicester Mercury, YOU'RE BANG OUT OF ORDER!
More people than ever are complaining about the daily racket caused by fireworks in Leicester.  By yesterday, 107 people had called the city council, compared to 12 last year.  It follows a high-profile campaign by the council and the Leicester Mercury urging people to be considerate when using fireworks.
Noise control officer Paul Toplass said: "The campaign has informed people about how to make a complaint.
"The number of complaints confirms what we originally thought - that fireworks are the cause of a great deal of stress and annoyance to many people across the city.  "A whole spectrum of people have complained to us about noisy fireworks being set off late at night in residential areas."
Mother-of-three Stephanie Smith is routinely woken in the early hours of the morning by fireworks being set off on the Saffron estate.  She said: "The noise normally starts at about 4pm and goes on to midnight and 1am. It has been every night of the week for the past few weeks.  "The noise wakes you up. It wakes my three-year-old, Curtis, up five or six times a night. He has been having nightmares. He hears a bang, cries and says that he thinks people are shooting him.  "That is the effect it is having. There must be so many people affected by this."
When the Mercury visited the family last night, six fireworks went off on the estate in the space of half-an-hour.
The city council's "Bang" campaign has involved distributing more than 500 posters to shops, libraries, doctors' waiting rooms, hospitals and council buildings.  It was prompted by complaints from people disturbed by fireworks noise last year, in the run-up to Diwali and bonfire night.
Mr Toplass said: "We have highlighted the problem locally and are now trying to push the issue on a national basis."
The council's efforts include lobbying for a ban on the sale of the noisiest fireworks.  To report firework nuisance to the city council call 0116 252 6339.  Further details about the campaign can be found on the city council's website:

October 30 2002, Local London, Gang throw lit firework into Tube
Terrified passengers including a woman seven months pregnant cowered as a lit firework thrown by a gang of youths rocketed through their busy Tube carriage last Wednesday night, spewing out flame and smoke before exploding.  The youths threw the firework into the train at East Finchley station at about 6.30pm just as the doors were closing, trapping commuters inside as it detonated.
Sherry Taylor-Wright of Woodside Park, had travelled on the same train as the gang from Leicester Square.
"As the doors closed at East Finchley all three of them leapt up and threw a rocket into the carriage," she said.
"Bang. The explosion was unreal like a bomb. The carriage filled up with smoke. Everyone was ducking as this thing zoomed around, flames coming out of it. It seemed to last forever.
There was a lady seven months pregnant the sheer terror on her face was unreal. She was just about to have her first child. I took her to the end of the carriage and opened the window."
At Finchley Central, Mrs Taylor-Wright told the driver what had happened. "People were coming up to me and asking what the explosion was. And those youths thought it was funny. They should know better after what happened in New York and in Bali," she said.
But the incident was not recorded in the station log books at Finchley Central or East Finchley. A spokesman for the British Transport Police said the matter had not yet been reported to them.

October 30 2002, Manchester Online, Limit firework sales say MPs
THE sale of fireworks should be banned at certain times of the year to reduce injuries and deaths, MPs said today.  "Reckless and stupid" use of fireworks, particularly by children, was endangering lives and causing misery across the country.
The MEN is campaigning for a ban on the general sale of fireworks, restricting them to organised displays only. We are also promoting a series of displays this year.
Scottish National Party MP Mike Weir launched his bid for tougher regulations on sales during a debate in Westminster Hall. He called for a time limit when fireworks can be sold.
Current laws dated back 130 years, he said, and were ineffective in dealing with the powerful fireworks of the 21st century.
He did not want a complete ban on fireworks but added: "The industry is drinking at the last chance saloon unless real improvements are made by a licensing system."
He said the "piecemeal" approach by councils should be replaced by central regulation governing the type of fireworks sold and when they could be sold in shops.
Mr Weir was supported by Labour's Linda Gilroy who called for firework sales to be put on a statutory footing.
MPs have called for curbs on the sale of air guns to teenagers after a series of attacks. They approved a private Bill to raise the age for unsupervised possession and use of air weapons from 14 to 17.
And Home Secretary David Blunkett, who said the attacks had become a scourge, has promised a review of the law. A number of cases were raised in the Commons last night including attacks on swans in Bolton.
Labour MP Jonathan Shaw, who proposed the Bill, said that cats and swans were being used for target practice by tearaways, especially during school holidays.

October 30 2002, Manchester online, Stay Safe Campaign
I am 100% in favour of your campaign. As a dog owner it costs me to sedate my dog in the run up to Bonfire Night, which is the longest night of the year. As a result she will no longer go out for a walk at night. I am not sure why people feel the need to let off loud fireworks indiscriminately. Clearly it is not responsible adults. It is obviously youths who purchase fireworks from unscrupulous firework shop owners (you know the one that opens for three months in the year). They do not care who they sell to. By banning the public sale of fireworks completely the issue goes away. If people want to throw money away they should donate to NHS charities rather than burden the already over-burdened NHS.
R. W. Hazel Grove

October 30 2002, Manchester online, Stay Safe Campaign
I use fireworks properly and sensibly every year without hurting anybody, hurting animals and damaging property. I don't see why I should have that right curtailed by a sales ban on fireworks and I won't have advice forced down my throat by anybody (fire brigade/safety campaigners/who ever) that I should go to organised firework displays because I just WON'T do it whatsoever.
A. P., Accrington

October 30 2002, Preston Today, Ban them now!
Fireworks should be banned except in organised displays, Evening Post readers demanded today.
And the mother of youngster Craig State, who suffered horror injuries from fireworks, threw her weight behind the call. A phone poll showed an overwhelming 94% of voters - 466 callers - called for a ban on fireworks on general sale. Only 6% - 28 callers - believed they should not be banned.
Communities across Lancashire have been terrorised by fireworks which have been targeted at people, property and pets in the run-up to Bonfire Night.
Today Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service's Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Paul Richardson, said misuse of fireworks was a growing problem.  He said: "There is a potential for injury, it causes misery to communities and ties up the resources of the fire brigade and other emergency services. It is an ill-conceived act to throw fireworks and very irresponsible. "If people want to see bonfires and fireworks, it is preferable and safer for them to go to an organised display."
In the latest incident, youths diced with death when they set off a firework in a post box.
The front door of the box, which weighs between 18 and 20 pounds, was blown clean off, blasting through the air before coming to rest across the road.  A furious resident witnessed the explosion which destroyed the box on Fulwood Hall Lane, Fulwood, Preston.  He said: "This is not just a firework, it is an explosive. I do not think these teenagers realise that.  "It would have killed somebody if they had been going past. This problem really needs highlighting. I just don't think these youngsters realise that they could kill somebody."
Jim Potts, Lancashire County Council's chief trading standards officer, said he was not surprised by the strength of feeling. He said: "Several thousand complaints are made to all agencies including trading standards, police, fire brigade and local authorities in Lancashire each year. The complaints now start in August and go on right throughout Christmas and the New Year.  "People are becoming fed up with the nuisance which misused fireworks cause.  "The problem of nuisance fireworks, disturbance, damage and danger has made communities heartily sick of fireworks."
Craig State, of Penwortham, suffered horrific injuries to his hand after a discarded firework exploded two years ago. His mother, Lorraine Covererdale, today called for all fireworks to be banned.
She said: "Craig's hand is now completely healed but that is only down to the skill of the surgeons.
"After what happened to him, I am dead against fireworks."

October 30 2002, SNP POLITICIANS WELCOME VOLUNTARY CODE ON FIREWORKS
Shona Robison MSP who is promoting a Private Members Bill to introduce a licensing scheme for the sale and use of fireworks has welcomed the news that Dundee City Council's voluntary code for the sale of fireworks has met with a positive response from traders.
Shona said, "I am pleased that most traders have proved themselves responsible by agreeing to this voluntary code. I am however still concerned about the few shops who will not sign up and hope that customers show their disapproval by moving their trade elsewhere. I am particularly disappointed that RS McColl's have still failed to reply to my letter, which complained about their irresponsible sale of fireworks well outwith three week period in the existing voluntary code."
Cllr Joe FitzPatrick added, "The positive response to the voluntary code is to be welcomed but of course a voluntary code is just that - voluntary. The problem is that there is currently no legal framework to penalise the few stores including RS McColl's who continue to ignore it. That is where Shona Robison's Private Members Bill will give teeth to the campaign against irresponsible sale and use of fireworks."

October 30 2002, This is Cheshire, Fireworks can kill - so don't take risks
FIREWORKS can hurt, maim or kill.
That's the stern warning from firefighters this week as Guy Fawkes night approaches.
Leading firefighter Ken Sharratt, said: "Fireworks and alcohol are an explosive cocktail. If you're lighting a fire, one drink can be one drink too many. It slows your reactions, causes you to lose your co-ordination and ability to supervise children. Don't put yourself, your family and friends at risk."
Follow these simple safety tips, say firefighters, and you can have an enjoyable evening:
Check the fireworks are suitable for the size of your garden
Make sure your fireworks conform to British Standard 7114 1998
Read the instructions in daylight
Appoint one person to be solely responsible for the fireworks
Have a bucket of water at hand, eye protection and gloves
Fill a bucket with soft earth to stick fireworks in and use a board for flat bottomed fireworks
Use suitable support for Catherine wheels and launchers for rockets
Light fireworks at arm's length with a taper
Everyone should stand well back
Never go back to light a firework
After the bonfire, use tongs or a glove to collect spent fireworks
Wear gloves with sparklers and don't give to children under five
Bonfires should be at least 60 ft from houses, sheds, hedges, fences or trees.
Mr Sharratt, said: "Use domestic firelighters. Don't use petrol or other flammable liquids. If you're splashing petrol around, it only takes seconds for it to ignite."

October 30 2002, This is Cheshire, Horse owner's plea to people to be careful with their fireworks
A HORSE owner is urging people to be more careful after one of her animals was injured after being frightened by fireworks. Cheryl McKenna, of Coach Road, Little Budworth, and her family are very concerned about the dangers and injuries caused to animals by fireworks.  Her horse, Chippy, became distressed by the loud noises created by a firework display last month and damaged his legs in barbed wire when he tried to bolt out of a field.
She was left with a bill for £500 for treatment from the vets and transport costs to and from the surgery.
Distress
Leonora McKenna, Cheryl's mum, said: "The noises from big bonfires and fireworks can cause horses a lot of distress which can cause them to panic and lead to them getting injured.  "People and organisations who have organised bonfire displays at this time of the year must remember to warn other people in the surrounding areas.
"They could also be very careful especially in residential areas or near farms or stables as fireworks can travel some distance and could cause damage or a fire." Leonora said that many horse owners face similar problems not only at this time of year but all year round and it is very important that people are made aware of any displays or events at the home. Leonora added: "People let off fireworks for birthdays and weddings but forget to tell or warn their neighbours about them so that their pets and animals can be looked after."

October 30 2002, This is Cheshire, Woman's horror as firework gang target pets
A WINSFORD resident is calling for all pet owners to be aware of the dangers facing their animals as bonfire night approaches.
The woman, who does not wish to be named, is concerned that pets in Winsford, particularly in the St John's and Mount Pleasant areas, are being targeted by youths.
Her fears are based on reality as just last week she was told a gang of youths had caught a cat and taken a rabbit from a hutch and had strapped fireworks to the backs of the terrified animals.
Fortunately one of the gang took pity on the pets and was able to free them before they were harmed.
Now the woman is pleading with all pet owners to make sure their cats and dogs are kept in each night and that owners of rabbits put padlocks on hutches to ensure they are not taken.
She said: "We need to make sure that these youths can't get to the animals because there might not be someone around each time to save them."
This is a sentiment echoed by the police who are also warning people to be vigilant as the annual celebration draws closer.
A police spokesman said: "Pet owners really do need to be aware at this time of year of the very real dangers facing their animals.
"We would ask everyone to be conscious of these dangers and do what they can to minimise the risk."

October 30 2002, This is Lancashire, County campaign wins 'air bomb' ban pledge
A LANCASHIRE campaign to ban lethal pocket money fireworks has paid off after the Government promised to make 'air bombs' illegal.
Consumer minister Melanie Johnson yesterday announced proposals to ban the 'bombs', which are sold in packs of four for 99p.
The cheap fireworks were introduced after the ban on traditional bangers in 1997, and were immediately condemned by Lancashire County Council's trading standards department.
Rising complaints and injuries prompted the county council to develop a five-point plan to improve firework safety and reduce nuisance complaints.
The plan included banning of 'air bombs', and was backed by John Woodhead, chairman for the British Firework Association.
He said: "The British Fireworks Association has reached agreement with the DTI on measures to deal with the 'air bomb' menace highlighted so clearly in Lancashire Trading Standards' Firework Bulletin.
"Starting next year, Guy Fawkes night and the period around it will be both quieter and safer.
"I, personally, as Chairman of the BFA, am most grateful to Lancashire Trading Standards for actively addressing firework problems and for prompting the firework industry to take this important action."
The ban on the sale of 'air bombs' will come into effect from January 1, initially as a voluntary agreement supported by the British Fireworks Association, followed by a legal ban on sales.

October 30 2002, This is Lancashire, Rocket horror Mum in law plea
A MOTHER is calling for firework laws to be changed after a rocket thrown towards her daughter exploded against her leg.   Andrea Scholes wants legislation introduced so that fireworks should only be sold on November 5.   Her call comes after a firework hit her 13-year-old daughter Sara-Nicole's leg, while she was standing outside her Norden Court home in Great Lever.
The firework -- a type of rocket -- seared through Sara-Nicole's trousers, and burnt her leg so badly it turned black. Doctors told her she will be scarred for the next couple of years.
Receptionist Mrs Scholes, aged 31, said: "She was walking out of my house and there was a gang of lads standing at the side. One of the lads shouted and then a firework was thrown at her leg. It actually exploded on her leg and at first she thought the firework had gone through her leg."  Sara-Nicole began screaming in pain and the explosion caused her leg to turn back. She was rushed to hospital where doctors told her she would have scar tissue for the next two years.
The Smithills School pupil is still bruised and wearing dressings on her leg.   Sara-Nicole said: "I saw something coming at me but I just couldn't move. When the firework went into my leg I couldn't say anything for a couple of minutes, then I started screaming.  "I used to enjoy going to Bonfire nights but I do not like them now."
Mrs Scholes said the laws governing fireworks should be tightened up and she thinks youngsters can obtain fireworks far too easily. She now will not let her youngest child Thomas, aged seven, out when fireworks are being set off.  She said: "I want to raise awareness of the damage fireworks can do. That firework could have gone into a child's face. The laws should be changed so they cannot be sold until the day of bonfire night.
"Some shopkeepers have been selling fireworks for the past six weeks. In my opinion they are just putting profit before children's safety. Profits should not come into it when we are talking about children's lives."
A police spokesman said they were investigating the incident.

October 30 2002, This is Lancashire, School evacuated in firework attack
LOWTON High School had to be evacuated after a firework was thrown into a classroom.
Firefighters were called last night to the St Helens Road school after smoke from the device set the fire alarm off.
Children and adults using parts of the building for extra curricular activities had to be evacuated. No one was injured and no serious damage was caused.

October 30 2002, Ulster TV, Firework regulations bid
The sale of fireworks should be banned at certain times of the year in an effort to reduce the number of injuries and deaths, MPs warned today. 'Reckless and stupid' use of fireworks, particularly by children, was endangering lives and causing misery across the country.  The Scottish National Party's Mike Weir (Angus) launched his bid for tougher regulation on firework sales during a debate in Westminster Hall by calling for a time limit when fireworks can be sold.  Current laws dated back 130 years, he said, and were proving ineffective in dealing with the ``powerful`` fireworks of the 21st century.  ``I do not seek a complete ban on fireworks,`` he said, but added: ``The industry is very much drinking at the last chance saloon unless very real improvements are made by a licensing system.`` He said the ``piecemeal`` approach by councils should be replaced by central regulation governing the type of fireworks sold and when they could be sold in shops.
Mr Weir was supported by Labour's Linda Gilroy (Plymouth Sutton) who called for firework sales to be put on a statutory footing.  ``It is essential we find ways of putting Jack back in the box,`` she said.
The Liberal Democrats` John Barrett (Edinburgh West) said it was time Government tried to ``minimise the danger`` of fireworks.  ``It's not a case of being a killjoy ... but it is time we had better regulation.``
Labour's Russell Brown (Dumfries) said the firework season was not confined to a week either side of Bonfire Night in his constituency, but had started two months ago.  He urged the Government to hold talks with manufacturers to encourage the creation of quieter fireworks.
Adrian Bailey (Lab, West Bromwich West) said he did not wish to be a ``killjoy`` but anti-social use of fireworks made some people's lives ``hell``. He suggested voluntary restraint, using a licensing system as in Northern Ireland.
Dr Brian Iddon (Lab, Bolton SE) said he enjoyed fireworks but there should be a ban on the sale of large ones.
He highlighted six foot long rockets and nine inch cakes of fireworks with multiple charges.  ``These are huge explosives and they should not be in the hands of the general public, only in the hands of professional people who have been trained to set them off,`` he said.
Dr Vincent Cable, for the Liberal Democrats, said existing regulations were not being enforced because of under-staffing in local authority trading standards departments.  Police shortages meant officers just laughed at measures on fireworks, he said. He suggested a voluntary code on the sale of fireworks.
Andrew Robathan, for the Conservatives, was against further regulation on fireworks.  ``We don`t really want to make this more of a nanny state,`` he said.  The problem was existing regulations were not being enforced.
Fireworks were still being let off in the street by children when no one under 18 was allowed to buy them.
He urged greater parental supervision and called on the public to call the police if they saw fireworks being let off in the street.  He added: ``My dog, of whom I am inordinately fond, is also terrified of thunderstorms, but I haven`t quite worked out regulations we could introduce for that!``
Junior trade and industry minister Melanie Johnson said she was sympathetic to concerns about firework noise and shared concerns about the increase in injuries last year.  Some 1,362 people required hospital treatment in the 2001 fireworks season, an increase on the previous year, she said.  But there were already bans on setting off fireworks in the street, on selling them to under 18s and on the sale of larger fireworks.  The Government did not believe the case had been made for banning the sale of fireworks to the public and limiting their use to public displays.  ``We believe such a ban might lead to an illegal market in fireworks and could encourage people to produce home made devices,`` she said.  She spoke of fireworks safety campaigns by the Government, local authorities, police and fire authorities, with packs sent to schools.
Fireworks provided family entertainment when used sensibly, she added.

October 29 2002, Chester Evening Leader, AIR BOMB BAN WELCOMED
A VOLUNTARY ban on the sale of air bombs and mini rockets from next year has been welcomed by a local AM.  But Clwyd West Alun Pugh has called on businesses in the county to stop selling the fireworks in time for this Bonfire night.  As the Pioneer reported last week, the Government are proposing a range of new regulations, including banning air bombs and mini rockets, a crackdown on illegal sale of fireworks and plans to encourage councils to curb noise and nuisance problems relating to fireworks.
A pilot scheme of on the spot fines is also being run in various areas, including Newport in South Wales.
The ban on air bombs and mini rockets is voluntary and will come into effect from January 1 next year.
John Woodhead, chairman of the British Fireworks Association, said: "This action will result in over 30 million loud bangs being removed from the market each year.
"Our product is as safe as any in the world and is used safely, without causing an offence to others, by over 10 million people each year. Our air bomb and small rocket ban is aimed at the hooligan minority who give fireworks a bad name.  "We trust this announcement will be good news to the many who have felt the need to complain so vociferously during the past year - in particular the elderly and pet owners."
He added the ban would not take effect until next year because of the long lead-time for ordering and manufacturing.
Unveiling the plans, consumer minister Melanie Johnson said: "It is vital we crack down on this problem, but also educate people to make sure they know the consequences of the anti-social use of fireworks."
And Mr Pugh welcomed the news - but with conditions.
He said: "I am pleased that this legislation has been passed but for this Bonfire night, the risks are still high.
"I certainly don't want to be a killjoy and stop people having fun as long as they are responsible.
"I would urge all shops in Colwyn Bay to voluntarily withdraw the air bombs and the screaming rockets so everyone can have a safe November 5."

October 29 2002, Chester Evening Leader, CRACKDOWN ON TRADERS
SHOPS breaking strict fireworks laws will be prosecuted without question, a leading councillor has warned.  Cllr Glyn Jones - who is Conwy's cabinet member for community safety - vowed that shops selling fireworks to children would have action taken against them.
As the law stands, fireworks can be sold all year round - but a voluntary code of practice states they should only be on general public sale three weeks before November 5 and a few days afterwards.
Additional allowances are made for the New Year period and allow sales between December 8 and January 1.
Fireworks cannot be sold to under-18s, except for caps, cracker snaps, novelty matches, party poppers, serpents and 'throw-downs' - which cannot be sold to under-16s.
Regulations also prevent the sale of certain kinds of firework to the general public.
It is an offence to throw or let off fireworks in a street or public place under the 1875 Explosives Act. Offenders can be fined £5,000 for breaking the law.
Trading standards officers from Conwy will be visiting shops to ensure licences are complied with and checking to see that fireworks are not sold to the public during organised displays.
Cllr Jones said: "We will be looking to reduce accidents again this year.
"Our staff are visiting shops with the message that, if they are found to be selling to people under age, we will be prosecuting without question.
"We lobbied our AMs in Conwy on this issue last year after The Pioneer campaign."

October 29 2002, Chester Evening Leader, FIREWORK BLAZE INVESTIGATED
INVESTIGATORS are looking into a blaze involving thousands of pounds of fireworks at a Llandudno store.
A Conwy council spokeswoman confirmed a team from the council would be investigating the incident under the Health and Safety Act and Explosives Act. Police are also examining the incident.
The 'suspicious' fire kept firemen battling unsuccessfully to stop it spreading to a nearby container full of fireworks.
The blaze, at Mostyn Champneys Retail Park, Llandudno, is believed to have started when pallets stacked at the rear of the Homebase store were set alight. Fire crews fought for 14 hours to keep the fire under control.
Fire crews were called to the area at the rear of the Homebase store shortly after 8.30 pm on Tuesday October 15. The area was declared safe more than 13 hours later.
Roads around the store were closed in the early hours of Wednesday, as fire teams battled to control the fire.
Homebase spokesperson Charlotte Davies said: "We can confirm that there was a fire in the service yard area of our Llandudno store.
"The store was closed at the time, but a passing member of staff noticed smoke and called the fire brigade who arrived quickly before any serious damage was caused, and the matter is now being investigated by the police.
"The store was shut for a few hours this morning but is now open for business as usual."
Fire investigation and police officers were at the scene searching the site for clues as to how the blaze started.
North Wales Police confirmed that they were treating the incident as suspicious and urged anyone with information about the fire to contact them on: (0845) 607 1002.

October 29 2002, Chester Evening Leader, PIONEER READER'S VIEWS GO STRAIGHT TO THE TOP 
HUNDREDS of Pioneer readers have had their views taken directly to Downing Street in our bid to secure a clampdown on the nuisance of fireworks.  Signatures on The Pioneer's petition calling for a ban on firework sales to the general public have been joined with hundreds of thousands of others from like-minded people from all around Britain - all calling for further firework regulations.  Conwy MP Betty Williams and a group of MPs from all around the country called at Number 10 a week ago to hand over petitions on the issue - signed by more than 200,000 people.
Mrs Williams said: "I was very glad to be able to carry the message from Pioneer readers to the Prime Minister's office at the heart of Government.  "My colleague Barry Gardiner, MP for Brent North, led us as he has previously presented a Bill to Parliament on the control of fireworks.
"Slowly the message is getting through to the industry that there is a growing demand for greater control to ensure the responsible use of fireworks."
The news came as the Government announced plans to ban certain kinds of firework from next year.
The ban is accompanied by a clampdown on illegal firework sales and a trial scheme of on the spot fines for firework throwers.

October 29 2002, Express and Star, Cars and buildings targets for fireworks
Mindless yobs are aiming fireworks into the path of traffic and hurling them inside buildings, putting property and lives at risk, police have said.
Sgt Bob Lee of Rugeley Police said he was disgusted by the mentality of youths who were behaving so irresponsibly in the town, and at outlets selling fireworks to people so far in advance of Bonfire Night.
He said the problems had been going on for the past few days.
"On Sunday evening, some youths threw a stone through the window of a business unit in the town to smash the window, then they lit a firework and tossed it through the hole," he said.
"This kind of behaviour is so reckless and irresponsible it beggars belief.
"Fortunately there was nobody on the premises at the time and the firework hit the floor of the unit, causing minor damage, but it was full of property and electrical equipment which could have been destroyed."
He added: "There are gangs of kids meeting up in Hagley Park with a load of fireworks, lighting them and tossing them into Hagley Road where they are hitting cars or exploding on the carriageway.
"This kind of behaviour is intended to cause destruction and damage, and could lead to serious injury or loss of life."
Sgt Lee added that he believed that fireworks should not be sold to the public, and be restricted to professional displays only.

October 29 2002, icScotland - Should Fireworks be banned
John from Lanarkshire 10:43 PM 29 October 2002
Yes Fire works are Nice But as Dave said "Old people are scared to leave the house at night" Because fireworks is going off. They are supplying them in the shop to early. And it's just to easy for children to get there hands on them.
Moira from Glasgow 11:31 AM 28 October 2002
Fireworks are a wonderful invention; the colour, the joy. Anything that brightens up the dull winter sky is good in my book. They're also great for parties and functions.
Jamie from Edinburgh 11:30 AM 28 October 2002
There's no doubt fireworks can be fun, if used safely. it shouldn't be about banning them, it should be about supplying them correctly, not allowing minors to get their hands on them because that's when accidents happen.
Steve from Aberdeen 11:02 AM 28 October 2002
I disagree Dave. Fireworks, on the whole, are safe. and they are getting safer each year. it's not as if you'd just cancel Christmas like that, November 5th is a historic date that today, in times of terrorism on a massive scale, is more relevant than ever.
Dave from Glasgow 10:58 AM 28 October 2002
I think they should be banned. not only are pensioners scared to leave their homes at this time of year, people regularly get injured or even die on and around November 5th. Wise up Tony Blair and do what is only right.

October 29 2002, Ilkley Gazette, Letters to the Editor, Rural fireworks claim is challenged
SIR, - Your correspondent, Jane Butterworth's assertion that in rural communities fireworks are let off to celebrate almost any event is somewhat preposterous. (Gazette, October 17).)
I was born in Slingsby, Ryedale, in 1933, and my wife was born in Timble, Washburndale in 1934. We have lived in semi rural communities in Airedale, Calderdale and Ribblesdale and for the past 40 or so years in Wharfedale.
We have never come across this habit of letting off fireworks willy- nilly until recently. It has begun to happen in the Ilkley area over the past few years, and predominantly in what may be described as the more affluent areas of Middleton, Grove Road and Panorama.
Our experience has been that families have had to save up to buy a few fireworks for bonfire night or have made the effort to take their children to organised displays.  When our children were growing up, and we lived in a place in Ilkley, with space, we actually held very successful firework parties for friends and relatives on Bonfire night.
I find the indiscriminate setting off of the aerial bombs and similar explosive devices late at night extremely annoying and disturbing. I lived through the 1939-45 war and spent many hours in our air raid shelter. We lived close to a Royal Ordnance Factory that Hitler did not approve of.
I later served in the Royal Navy as a gunlayer, spending weeks at a time with the sound of gunfire in my ears, during the Korean War. The people who carry out these activities, are selfish and totally inconsiderate of the needs of their neighbours.
Having seen the price tags on some of the `fireworks' on offer I would venture that they also have more money than sense. As I write the `Lions' are having their annual charity fireworks display. At least it is early evening. I would be more likely to support that if it were on Bonfire night.
It has been going a long time and is for a good cause, but has set a poor precedent. Now, in addition to some of the other epithets which have been directed at me, perhaps `killjoy' will be added.
V M B, Ilkley.

Distressing noise
SIR, - I resisted the temptation to write to you about the proposed firework ban, but after reading Jane Butterworth's letter (Gazette, Oct 17) I felt I had to respond on behalf of all the aloof, pretentious killjoys of Ilkley! I have three points for Ms Butterworth's consideration.
1. Fireworks have become increasingly noisy over recent years. Those called Air Bombs are so called because that is exactly what they sound like. My mother lived and worked in London during the Blitz and still finds loud bangs upsetting.
She doesn't need to re-live that part of her life. People of her generation sacrificed their youth so that we can enjoy our privileged lifestyle today and they deserve some peace in their later years, as well as our respect.
2 Pet owners are rightly advised to keep their pets indoors on bonfire night but how on earth are we supposed to do this when fireworks are potentially set off 365 days a year? The Guy Fawkes celebration is already an extended period of time with `official' bonfires taking place as early as mid-October. Every year, much loved pets go missing or are involved in road accidents after being panicked by fireworks.
3. `All year round' fireworks is another step towards nothing being `special' any more - hot cross buns and Easter eggs in January, Christmas cards in the shops in August, fireworks every month of the year.
Let's keep November 5 as something special. You can boycott noisy fireworks and still enjoy a lovely display. We had a bonfire party when we first moved here and I discovered what thoughtful neighbours we had when they contributed non-banging fireworks because they knew we had animals.
Amazingly, it is possible to enjoy yourself without distressing others.
H. P. Ilkley.

October 29 2002, Leeds Today, Rogue traders are hitting us hard
ROGUE traders in Leeds are to blame for the upsurge in complaints about fireworks, according to watchdogs and the city's shopkeepers.  Tales of a black market in fireworks being sold from the boots of cars and illegal sales to schoolchildren have flooded in to police and Trading Standards officers.  Shopkeepers in Leeds say responsible stores are being undermined by these unscrupulous sellers who are simply looking to cash in on the firework season.  One shop owner in the Harehills area of the city, who did not wish to be named, said they were going to any lengths to make a sale.
He told the YEP: "They come in dressed in suits posing as reps, asking if I want to buy any fireworks. I just tell them I am not interested. "You also get kids coming in wanting to buy fireworks. When you turn them away they get someone older to come in for them. "When you still won't sell to them they come back and throw a lit firework inside the shop."
And Louise Button, from Leeds-based The Great Northern Firework Company, said reputable stores were seeing their business drop because of illegal sales. "I've heard of people going round parts of east Leeds selling fireworks out of the back of a van to absolutely anybody," she said. "The problem is that the public still believe that when someone offers them something at a knockdown price it is a bargain. "But what they're really doing is buying explosives that can hurt people, from someone who is not legally allowed to handle them."
Trading Standards officers have been responding to tip-offs from members of the public identifying rogue firework traders. Tony Downham, from Trading Standards, said: "When you buy fireworks from the back of a van or off someone in the street you have no way of knowing if they are safe. "We will investigate any reports of this sort of activity and where appropriate we will prosecute."
Police also want to hear from people who have seen fireworks being sold illegally.
West Yorkshire Trading Standards can be contacted on 0113 3848848 .
The Yorkshire Evening Post is calling for a ban on sales until 10 days before Bonfire Night.
Its campaign is supported by Leeds MPs, who have signed a Commons motion demanding Government action.
Anyone knows or suspect that a shop is selling fireworks to under-18s, should contact the consumer helpline on 0113 3848848.

October 29 2002, Local London, Bonfire night will be safer from next year
As from January 1, 2003, members of the British Firework Association (BFA), which distributes 95 per cent of all fireworks in the UK, will no longer supply single tube air bombs and small whistle/bang rockets.
These have been the subject of much misuse in recent years and this action will result in more than 30 million loud bangs being removed from the market each year.
The BFA is working closely with the DTI (consumer safety) to create a quieter and safer November 5th. Our product is as safe as any in the world and is used safely, without causing offence to others, by more than 10 million people each year. Our air bomb and small rocket ban is aimed at the hooligan minority who give fireworks a bad name.
We trust this announcement will be good news to many who have felt the need to complain so vociferously during the past year in particularly the elderly and pet owners.
It cannot take effect until next year because of the long lead time for ordering and manufacturing. Furthermore, BFA members are now producing fireworks to comply with proposed European noise levels, expected to become law within the next two years.
BFA members have always supported press freedom (despite some alarmist headlines) and recognise the role of the media in bringing issues to the attention of the public.
John Woodhead ,Chairman, British Fireworks Association

October 29 2002, Local London, Fireworks warning to horseowners
A LEADING horse welfare charity is appealing to anyone organising a firework display this November to give horse owners in their area advance warning.
Ms Nadine Hawkes, operations support manager at the International League for the Protection of Horses (ILPH), said: "Most people look forward to bonfire night, but for horse owners it can be a worrying time. Many horses and ponies can become stressed and upset by both the sight and sound of fireworks going off and if they are out in fields it could have tragic consequences."
Horseowners are advised to stable their animals if there is a firework display nearby, to give them plenty of hay and to check on them during the evening.
The ILPH also suggests that horse owners have sand and water on hand In case there is a fire and to check the field in the morning for any stray fireworks that may have landed there.
As firework displays are becoming more common all year round, horse owners are being urged to lookout for notices advertising them locally.

October 29 2002, Manchester online, Stay Safe Campaign
I have NO problem with fireworks that produce pretty effects, sometimes noisily i.e. the launch of stars and effects accompanied by a thump from a multishot roman cake or barrage/battery/single roman candle and with those that bang to a pretty effect i.e. display and garden rockets which bang to pretty starbursts/falling willow/glitter/comets/crackles/wriggling fish/beautiful colourful floral bursts/shell-breaks etc and bursts of crackles/whistles/hummers and colour from mines. I have no problems with fountains which produce colours/crackles/wonderful glittery stars etc with or without whistles mixed in. I do NOT hold truck with fireworks capable of sounding off with mega-loud bangs that echo for miles-and it's these that should be banned from sale. I think the industry should sell pretty garden and display fireworks with SOME noise, even if it occasionally does a bang or three and get rid of these loud banging without-a-pretty-effect garden and display fireworks which merely create nuisance.
A. P, Accrington

October 29 2002, Preston Today, Gunpowder treason and clots
Firework thugs are wreaking havoc across Lancashire. Young tearaways are buying cheap air bombs, bangers and rockets, then using them to attack people, pets and property.
A catalogue of incidents has already been reported to police.
A police spokesman said: "Preston police are keen that parents and their children have an enjoyable time in the run up to Bonfire Night, but they would also ask parents to ensure their children do not have possession of fireworks.
"This is because of the potential injury they could cause - not only to their children but to other children if they are thrown or if they go off by accident.
"If any instances of fireworks through letter boxes are reported to the police, we will fully investigate them and if we trace the offenders they will face criminal proceedings, because this is a very serious offence."
In the latest incident, the YMCA in Samuel Street was targeted by yobs who threw a series of lit fireworks into the building while children were inside with their teachers.
On Saturday night, a home in Ingol was targeted by thugs who threw a lit firework through the letter box, while the owners were at home.
Two homes in Leyland were also targeted over the weekend. At 10.30pm on Saturday firebugs attacked the home of a 60-year-old woman in Woodlands Drive.
The offenders went around the side of the house, broke a glass panel in a wooden door and put a lit firework through it. The explosion caused damage to the kitchen and dining area.
The thugs then picked up a rock from the garden and hurled it through the front windows. The total damage was £890.
The Priory house next to St Mary's Church in Broadfield Walk, Leyland, was also targeted at 1.05 am on Saturday.
A lit firework was thrown through a letter box and fell on to the carpet. The total damage was £210.
Earlier in the week, at least four families were terrorised by gangs putting fireworks through letterboxes.
At one home in Westfield Drive, Leyland, curtains were set on fire by sparks. Houses on the Callon estate, Preston and a home in Glenview Court, Ribbleton were among those hit.
In separate incidents, one man was hit in the face by a rocket, and another reached into his pocket and found a lit firework.
A number of pets become victims. Among them were two German Shepherd dogs who were being looked after in a rescue centre.
Vehicles are also being targeted and a phone was blown off the wall in a Station Road call box in Bamber Bridge.

October 29 2002, The News & Star, FIRE SAFETY CHIEF WELCOMES GOVERNMENT AIR BOMB BAN
A CUMBRIAN fire safety chief has applauded the Government's recent drive to cut Bonfire Night injuries by banning "pocket money" fireworks.
Alan Mackrill, Cumbria Fire Brigade's senior fire safety officer, welcomed Consumer Minister Melanie Johnson's proposals to prevent the sale of air bombs - a popular choice for firework hooligans.
Mr Mackrill said the cheap, noisy fireworks were responsible for many injuries. "We welcome the measures," he said.  "By banning this type of firework, it's going to reduce the number of injuries and the associated noise nuisance to the public."
Last year, six Cumbrians were taken to hospital having been hurt by fireworks.
A spokeswoman for the NHS in North Cumbria said that many more may suffer injuries from fireworks.
She said: "[The statistics] may not truly reflect the number of people injured. If people have minor accidents, they wouldn't necessarily go to A&E. If people have gone to their GP or treated themselves, it doesn't show true picture.  "The message is about people taking proper precautions."
Police in Cumbria usually see a 25 per cent rise in firework-related complaints during late October and early November, largely attributed to the misuse of fireworks.
Andrew Bishop, owner of the Firework Factory, on Botchergate, Carlisle, also commended the ban on air bombs. He said there was no other firework with the same nuisance effect.  He added that it was up to retailers to ensure that fireworks did not get into the wrong hands. "We are extremely careful about who we serve. We ask people to prove their age and sign a book to prove they are 18," he said.
The Government's new measures come as police in Dumfries and Galloway report a dramatic drop in firework-related incidents. This is because of a recent drive in the county to cut down on the sale of illegal fireworks.
Superintendent George Graham said: "It's really good news that this nuisance has begun to lessen."
The proposed Government ban on air bombs and small whistle rockets was launched after injuries among young teenagers rose by more than 50 per cent last year.

October 29 2002, This is Nottingham, COMMODORE HIT BY BLAZE
Children playing with fireworks are suspected to have sparked a blaze at former cabaret venue the Commodore International.  The fire left the ground and first floor of the building heavily smoke-logged. No one was hurt.
Fire crews attended at 11.17 last night after smoke was spotted coming out of the building on Nuthall Road, Aspley.  The fire is believed to have started in a first-floor room containing till receipts and papers.
Dave Bullock, a station officer at Central Fire Station, said:  "We strongly suspect that it was caused by kids playing with fireworks, as they were seen to enter the premises yesterday."
The police are investigating.

October 29 2002, This is South Devon,  Do More Than Just 'Keep Pets Indoors'
As Bonfire Night approaches I am writing to let you know about the work that the Blue Cross are doing for the thousands of pets that suffer the stress caused by fireworks throughout the year, but especially on November 5.
The main problems affecting pets are ones linked to stress caused by noise. Animal behaviourists, including the Blue Cross network of trained advisors, find that a significant percentage of the animals they treat have suffered long-lasting behavioural problems due to exposure to fireworks.
The Blue Cross understands that fireworks are enjoyed by hundreds of thousands of people across the UK, so is calling on the Government to ensure that the current provision of advice about pets and fireworks is increased.
At present the Firework Code only advises pet owners to keep pets indoors. This does not cover the huge range of problems and questions the Blue Cross receives from concerned pet owners every year.
In an effort to fill this gap the Blue Cross has produced a free leaflet giving all sorts of helpful advice on how to make fireworks less stressful for pets. These will be available across the country at firework retailers such Morrisons, at Blue Cross hospitals and adoption centres or from the charity's website at www.bluecross.org.uk
The Blue Cross has teamed up with the British Firework Association to produce this leaflet. The British Fireworks Association has taken the positive step of voluntarily prohibiting the sale of "air bombs" and the Government is now going to ban them for good.
Joe Inglis The Blue Cross, London

October 28 2002, Daily Mirror, Fireworks are a blasted menace
THERE are already too many firework-related accidents. Now, with the possibility of firefighters' strikes, their consequences could be even more devastating. A couple of weeks ago a poor dog died when it was taunted for weeks with fireworks by a group of kids. When are the powers that be going to ban the sale of fireworks? They just cause distress to old people and animals, and I have to listen to this unwanted noise from early October to December.  J K, Glasgow

October 28 2002, Evening Chronicle, Fireworks Action Plea
Calls for stricter firework controls has been unanimously backed by Gateshead Council.  Councillor Kevin Dodds, who represents Bensham and works as a firefighter, urged the authority to press the Government to introduce measures to help prevent fireworks-related injuries.

October 28 2002, Express and Star, Pub boss angered as police free yob
A Black Country pub landlord has told how he held one of a gang of youths who threw a firework through his toilet window - only for police to him go.  Alan Davies, who runs The Fountain in Lower Gornal, said the firework filled the pub's gents toilets with smoke and caused a loud bang that was heard throughout the premises.
But after questioning the youth detained by Mr Davies police let him go because there was no evidence against him.  Mr Davies said: "A gang of youths was setting off fireworks. I went outside and grabbed hold of one of them and called the police." 
Mr Davies said he held onto the teenager for around 10 minutes, despite the rest of the gang returning and shouting abuse at him, then the police arrived.  "They asked me to let go of the lad, which I did, and they went inside with him to ask him some questions," said Mr Davies. "After a bit they said they'd had a word with him but they couldn't do anything else." Mr Davies admitted he had not seen who actually threw the firework.
A West Midlands police spokeswoman said: "No damage was caused to the premises and no-one was injured.
"One boy was advised of his conduct and we believe officers acted entirely appropriately in this matter."

October 28 2002, Harrogate Today New salvo against fireworks nuisance
CAMPAIGNERS trying to tackle the misuse of fireworks received a boost this week as Harrogate Council threw its weight behind moves to make autumn nights more peaceful. Harrogate Police last month asked retailers around the town to help clamp down on the misuse of fireworks by restricting their sale until after October 26. And that call was fully endorsed this week by Harrogate Council's cabinet member for environmental health Coun Les Ellington, who also called for residents using fireworks to be more considerate towards their neighbours.
A string of incidents last year included fireworks being thrown at cars, taped to windows and dropped through letterboxes. Senior police figures said serious injuries had been avoided "more by luck than management."
And although the police have no power to restrict when and where fireworks can be sold, they have asked all shops not to put them on sale this year until ten days before November 5.
Coun Ellington said he fully supported the police's stance, designed to prevent a repeat of the string of firework related incidents of damage and nuisance experienced last year. "From my point of view and that of the council I would clearly endorse and welcome the action of the police," he said. "We hope the retailers do take it on board as people are going to buy these things and it cuts down the time when they can be misused." Coun Ellington also called for more public consideration from people planning to hold their own firework displays.  "We are not trying to be killjoys but when fireworks are being let off we want there to be some sort of notification and publicity," he said. "I would urge all residents to take on board the consideration for their neighbours and people living around them."
Harrogate town centre commander Insp Alistair Waind welcomed the council's endorsement and said he hoped it could help prevent the problems of previous years.

October 28 2002, icLiverpool - My street could be human rights case
A PENSIONER has written to the European Court of Human Rights over the appalling conditions in his street.
Brian Russell, 68, from Bootle, is campaigning for Keble Road to be cleaned up after years of vandalism.
The father-of-six, who has lived in the street for 50 years, says he believes it is only a matter of time before someone is seriously injured.  Four houses at the end of the road are derelict with nothing stopping vandals from getting inside and causing further damage.  Windows have long since been smashed and bricks are being kicked out and thrown at passers-by.  Firefighters are called to the street at least once a week to deal with fires in the derelict buildings.
When the ECHO visited the street, youths launched fireworks through cut-off drain pipes at passing vehicles. Mr Russell said: "When we moved in 50 years ago this was a lovely street with great people living in it. "But about ten years ago a few of the houses became derelict and the problems began. "Over the past few years the problems have got worse and worse and now it is almost too much too bear. "People have told me I should move out, but why should I be forced to move? "I think these conditions are against my human rights and I intend to do something about it. "These houses need to be pulled down. I cannot believe they are not a danger to the public in their current condition."
Council officials say there is little they can do about the houses as they are owned by private landlords.  A spokesman for Sefton council said: "The five properties are privately owned.  "The responsibility for upkeep and maintenance lies with the owners. The local authority hopes to purchase the properties by agreement or by compulsory purchase and then demolish them.  "Any decision on what the vacant land would be used for would then be decided by the council in conjunction with local residents."

October 28 2002, icNewcastle - Fireworks action plea
Calls for stricter fireworks controls has been unanimously backed by Gateshead Council. Coun Kevin Dodds, who represents Bensham and works as a firefighter, urged the authority to press the Government to introduce measures to help prevent fireworks-related injuries.

October 28 2002, icNewcastle - Playing with fire
Rogue traders caught selling fireworks to children may lose their shop.  Traders supplying under-age customers are blamed by police for rises in crime and disorder.  Now police and trading standards officers in Sunderland are targeting suspect traders. Children posing as buyers will carry out test purchases to snare law breakers.

October 28 2002, Leicester Mercury,  PARENTS URGED TO HELP CURB FIREWORKS MENACE
Fresh calls were today made for parents to stop youngsters misusing fireworks after two people narrowly avoided being injured by the explosives.  In one incident, a four-year-old girl narrowly missed being struck by a firework which landed on the drive of her home.  In another, a woman had to reverse her car to avoid a firework which had just missed someone else in the street.
Today, Rebecca Sutton, of New Parks, whose four-year-old daughter Bethany managed to escape unhurt, urged parents to help put a stop to firework nuisance.  She said: "I had just pulled on to the drive and got out of my car when a firework came flying over the hedge. It brushed past my face and landed near the car.  "I shouted at Bethany to get back into the car and she did. If she hadn't have done, the firework could have gone up in her face and injured her.  "I called the police. My daughter was very frightened by what happened and she slept in my bed."
Tanya Rashid, 34, was waiting at traffic lights in her car when she spotted a banger hurtling towards her. She watched as the firework narrowly missed a woman.  Tanya, of Rowlatts Hill, said: "I had seen one of my mother's neighbours standing back against the railings looking frightened to death.  "I watched as a firework zoomed passed her at stomach level and just skimmed her. If she hadn't been looking, it would have hit her."
The firework brushed the front of Tanya's car before exploding.  She said: "It let off a horrific bang which shook my vehicle. In that few seconds, I managed to reverse the car a few yards, otherwise this firework would have gone off underneath. It was horrendous. I had a full tank of petrol. "I would like to make people aware how dangerous the situation could have been."
Police and trading standards officers have warned shopkeepers and parents to act responsibly when it comes to fireworks after reports of children posting fireworks through letterboxes and lighting them in the street.  An estimated 120 reports of firework misuse have been made to police in the central area of the city this month.
Tanya appealed to parents to ensure their children were aware of the dangers of fireworks. She said: "Even if it's not their child setting off fireworks, it could be their child who gets hurt.  "If you know of any youngster buying fireworks or setting them off, contact a relevant authority immediately. Let's catch these people before they do some serious damage."
Leicester City Council's high-profile Bang campaign aims to reduce firework nuisance.  Teams of people are on hand until 10pm to investigate calls to the Bang hotline as soon as they come in. Calls are recorded and the information is used to build a map of where problems occur.  To report firework, nuisance call 0116 252 6339.

October 28 2002, Leicester Mercury,  STOP MISUSE OF FIREWORKS, PARENTS TOLD
Fresh calls were today made for parents to stop youngsters misusing fireworks after two people narrowly avoided being injured.  In one incident, a four-year-old girl was nearly hit by a firework which landed on the drive of her home.  In another, a woman had to reverse her car to avoid a firework which had just missed someone else in the street.  Rebecca Sutton, of New Parks, Leicester, whose four-year-old daughter Bethany managed to escape unhurt, urged parents to help put a stop to firework nuisance.  She said: "I had just pulled on to the drive and got out of my car when a firework came flying over the hedge. It brushed past my face and landed near the car.
"I shouted at Bethany to get back into the car and she did. If she hadn't have done, the firework could have gone up in her face and injured her."
Tanya Rashid, 34, was waiting at traffic lights in her car when she spotted a banger hurtling towards her. She watched as the firework narrowly missed a woman.  Tanya, of Rowlatts Hill, Leicester, said: "I had seen one of my mother's neighbours standing back against the railings looking frightened to death.  "I watched as a firework zoomed passed her at stomach level and just skimmed her. If she hadn't been looking, it would have hit her."
The firework brushed the front of Tanya's car before exploding.  She said: "It let off a horrific bang which shook my vehicle. In that few seconds, I managed to reverse the car a few yards, otherwise this firework would have gone off underneath. It was horrendous. I had a full tank of petrol."
Police and trading standards officers have warned shopkeepers and parents to act responsibly over fireworks after reports of children posting fireworks through letterboxes and lighting them in the street.

October 28 2002, Local London, Firework danger

New Government measures to cut bonfire night injuries have been welcomed by Streatham MP Keith Hill.
These include encouraging councils to use their powers to curb firework noise and nuisance and a crackdown on illegal trading in fireworks.  Mr Hill said: "We all want to enjoy the fireworks season, but too often this time of year is blighted by problems of fireworks misuse, noise and nuisance.  "I particularly welcome the moves to ban air bombs and mini rockets, the two prime culprits used in anti-social behaviour."

October 28 2002, Manchester News, Death of Megan
I am extremely disturbed that cruelty of this kind is still in existence, I thought the human race was supposed to have evolved !! In my opinion the people guilty of this crime have committed murder and should be punished the same as if a human being had been killed. I fully support the RSPCA and feel that the laws need to change. These people killed an animal, it lived and breathed and deserved a place on this planet the same as any living being. What's more disturbing is that the people who did this were fully aware of the consequences of their actions making this murder an attack with an intent to kill. What is happening to society when children no longer value life ?  B, Manchester

October 28 2002, Preston Today, Firework thugs attack sick dogs
Two German Shepherds were given emergency treatment after a specialist Alsatian rehabilitation centre was attacked with fireworks. The pair were badly injured when youths hurled the fireworks on two separate occasions into the garden where they live.  The man who cares for them, Ted Kewley, today said he is now living in fear about leaving his dogs unattended.  Mr Kewley is one of a small number of people nationwide who are experts in caring for and re-homing German Shepherds and has re-homed more than 40 in the past year.
He has converted his small 30ft yard at his home in Warton, near Preston, into two pens for the dogs.  He is furious with both the youths who are terrorising his dogs and the people who supply them with fireworks.   He said: "Sheba, a young bitch who was rescued and brought to me, had a firework thrown at her.  "It exploded about two feet away from her causing her to panic and leap a four foot wall.  "She fell into the path of a car and was lucky, the vet said the she could have died because of the shock.  "The vets bill is £400 and the funds in the German Shepherd Rescue Box cannot sustain such high vet bills." The second injured dog was Blue, who was just about to be re-homed after Ted had spent thousands of pounds and 10 months nursing him back to health.  Blue was plucked from the jaws of death in February after being beaten and neglected by his owners.  Now he has had to undergo another four hours of surgery after a firework was thrown at him.  After the firework exploded he tried to scale a wooden gate and got his leg trapped, breaking his femur.   Ted said: "I am taking my last week of annual leave off to once again nurse Blue back to health. "I think tighter control by the Government is essential. The sale of fireworks are far in advance of November 5. Why? For profit? Would these shops like to donate profits to animal charities?  "I rely on the generosity of people to carry out my work. Such is their concern, they helped me to re-home 42 German Shepherds this year." Ted's organisation is struggling to cover the cost of treating Sheba and he is appealing for donations.
Anyone who can help should contact Ted on 07754 156189.

October 28 2002, Scottish Daily Express, Firework Sales Alarm, By Sarah Westcott, Consumer Editor
SUPERMARKETS, chain stores and newsagents vowed to crack down on the sale of fireworks to underage children last night after a Daily Express investigation.  Our researchers found eight out of 10 outlets sold potentially lethal rockets and bangers to 15-year-old Daniel Jacobs without checking his date of birth.
It is illegal to sell fireworks to people who appear to be under 18 and retailers that do face fines of up to £5,000.  Sainsbury's, Asda and Homebase were among the shops where Daniel was able to buy the fireworks.  Last night they spoke of their "horror" at our findings and said they were investigating.
A shocked Department of Trade and Industry spokesman said: "We are horrified by this blatant abuse of the law."
Fireworks have never been more popular or affordable with more than 100 million sold in Britain each year.  But latest figures reveal a shocking rise in injuries caused by fire-work accidents - last year the number of teenagers hurt shot up by 50 per cent, the biggest increase in seven years. Daniel himself was surprised at the ease with which he was able to buy the dangerous goods.  "I was particularly shocked at the big stores selling them to me, no questions asked," he said. "I've seen people set them off in bins. I could do anything with them."
At one store he bought a standard £3.96 box of Comet Dust fireworks including "solar flares" from a locked cabinet within minutes.  At others he bought a £6.99 box of Cosmic Fireworks, a £6.99 Black Cat selection box, a £5 box of "serious firepower Bulldog" fireworks, a £3.29 Demon Detonator rocket marked with a skull and crossbones, and a £6 Viper rocket which was more than one metre long.
David Roderick, an explosives expert with the Trading Standards Institute, said: "This backs up the need for some form of a national proof of age card that retailers are prepared to recognise and young people are prepared to use. But if shopkeepers are in any doubt, they shouldn't sell."
Ministers already plan to ban "airbombs" next year. These caused one fifth of all firework accidents last year and are increasingly popular among children, as they cost just 30p. Meanwhile the Scottish Executive plans to bring in new laws to tighten up the sale of fireworks.  Under an existing voluntary code, shops should not sell fireworks until 21 days before November 5 but it has been claimed too many retailers are ignoring the code. 
The Executive plans to introduce a licensing system for traders.  For the first time, shopkeepers would have to apply to their local authority for a licence to sell fireworks and anyone found to be in breach of the terms of the scheme, such as selling fireworks to children under 16, would lose their licence.  The plans are being drawn by ministers following warnings from senior police officers and opposition politicians that increasing numbers of young thugs are terrorising communities across the county with fireworks. 
In the Strathclyde area alone police reported that in just one week they had received almost 90 calls from worried members of the public including complaints of fireworks being thrown at both people and cars. And earlier this month Trading Standards officers and police seized a cache of 1.200 fireworks from a mans home in Edinburgh, amid claims they were being sold to children.

October 28 2002, Scottish Daily Express, Profits before safety
Leading stores which broke the law by selling fireworks to a 15-year-old in an Express investigation claim to be horrified by our findings.  But is it horror that a child was able to but potentially lethal rockets and bangers, or horror at being found out?
All over the country, under-age children have ready access to fireworks.  Shops are either deliberately ignoring the law or making scandalously inadequate attempts to enforce it.  If they are not prepared to take their responsibilities to society seriously -and the evidence is that they are not - they should be prosecuted.

October 28 2002, this is Gloucestershire, THINK OF PETS ON NOV 5
Most people enjoy the thrill of fireworks displays, but your pet dog is not so keen on the bangs of the pyrotechnics.  Bonfire Night also sends dogs walkies without their owners - and Battersea Dog Home is keen for everybody to be aware of pets when they are letting off their fireworks. The dogs' home has issued five tips for pet owners on November 5:
Keep all pets indoors during firework 'season' and try to walk dogs earlier in the evening to avoid running into any displays.
Once fireworks have started, keep your pet in a dark, quiet room, preferably at the furthest point from the fireworks.
If your pet becomes stressed do not comfort him. Try and block out the noises by turning on a radio and television.
If your pet is extremely sensitive, consider consulting your vet for a mild sedative or tranquilliser to help keep him calm. There are also herbal remedies available that can assist with this problem.
Make sure that your pet is properly identified with an ID tag or microchip.

October 28 2002, This is Lancashire, BEN opinion Firework truth
THE reality of playing with fireworks is all too horribly illustrated by our front page article on 11 year-old Michael Yewitt.  A firework he found on the ground exploded as he tried to light it, resulting in horrific burns to his hand. Michael is now in Booth Hall Hospital facing treatment for extensive burns.
He is the ninth local child to be treated for firework injuries in the run-up to Bonfire Night next week. This latest incident reinforces the danger of unsupervised fireworks, and their availability.
Police chiefs have revealed that children as young as nine are being sold fireworks by shopkeepers. And police also point to the number of firework-related assaults and criminal damage which has soared in the last month.
Increasingly, fireworks are used as missiles and a "weapon" of choice by the mindless. They are also frightening and upsetting for many local residents, especially the elderly.
More controls are urgently needed, and calls for banning the sale of fireworks to the public are becoming more urgent. Unfortunately, even though fireworks can be a source of great pleasure to people of all ages, they have become a worrying nuisance, and must be treated as such.

October 28 2002, This is Lancashire, Boy in exploding rocket horror
Michael Hewitt, aged 11, was badly injured when a rocket he found on the street exploded in his hand.  Surgeons are still assessing the extent of the his injuries but say the accident shattered four of his fingers. He may also have to undergo skin grafts.  Today, as Michael was recovering in hospital, police mounted a crackdown on rogue shopkeepers who they claim are "putting profit before lives" by selling potentially deadly fireworks to children as young as nine. Michael, of Greenroyd Avenue, Breightmet, was playing with his brothers near their home when he found a rocket on the ground near a bus shelter in New Lane.
He used a cigarette lighter to light the firework which exploded in his hand within seconds.
Michael ran home with his brothers Joseph, aged 12, Jordan, six, and four-year-old Reece.  His father Joe, aged 36, said: "Michael's hand was a mess. It looked like it had completely exploded and there was blood everywhere.
"He was in a lot of pain and was given a big dose of morphine when he got to the hospital. It was a shock for us and his brothers who saw what happened.  "Like a lot of children he is fascinated by fire and is always trying to get his hands on lighters. But I think this will teach him how dangerous it is."  He added: "I hope Michael's injuries will get the message across to other children that playing with fireworks is very dangerous."
Mr Hewitt and wife Jeanette took their son to the Royal Bolton Hospital. But the Top-O-th-Brow School pupil was then transferred to Booth Hall Children's Hospital and on to Withington Hospital for specialist burns treatment. 
Today fire chiefs renewed appeals warning children of the dangers of playing with fireworks.  Fire officer James Smethurst said: "This latest accident highlights the dangers of children having fireworks unsupervised. It was extremely irresponsible that someone had left a firework lying around like this.  "Our view is that it is much safer to go to official firework displays than to buy them yourself as they can be very dangerous and cause serious injuries."
Police were today targeting shopkeepers who are selling fireworks to children aged as young as nine.
Shops in Deane and Great Lever are being targeted in the police crackdown after an increase in incidents of fireworks being thrown at people or property.
Anyone with information about rogue firework traders is asked to contact Bolton Police on 0161 872 5050 or Crimestoppers on free phone 0800 555 111.

October 28 2002, This is Lancashire, Caravan is destroyed in blaze
A COUPLE'S caravan was destroyed in a blaze thought to have been started by a stray firework.  The fire broke out in Ron and Maureen Horsfield's carport at the back of their home in Manchester Road, Walkden. At one point, firefighters had to run for cover when a gas cylinder in the carport exploded.
Mr and Mrs Horsfield were woken by a neighbour pounding on their door in the early hours of Sunday morning.
They were horrified to see their £11,000 Coachman Genius 390SE caravan on fire.  Mr Horsfield, aged 68, a retired service engineer, said: "I ran outside barefoot with virtually nothing on so I could move our new car which we only got ten days ago and which was parked near the caravan. The caravan just went up in minutes."
Firefighters were unable to drive the fire engine down a narrow back alleyway to get to the carport so they had to carry equipment to the blaze.  They took 45 minutes to bring the fire under control, but prevented it from spreading to surrounding outbuildings and houses. No one was injured.
Mrs Horsfield said: "There were a lot of sentimental things in the caravan, including photographs."   The couple had just sold the caravan to a friend -- and had ordered a new one due to arrive in February. 
A police spokesman confirmed that it was believed a stray firework had caused the blaze.

October 28 2002, This is Lancashire, Firework accidents may spark new laws
EAST Lancashire MP's have welcomed new government firework safety measures but warned that if they fail to reduce accidents tougher restrictions will be needed.  Tory Nigel Evans, who represents Ribble Valley, and Labour MPs Greg Pope of Hyndburn, and Gordon Prentice of Pendle, have urged people to be extra careful with fireworks in the light of the firefighters dispute.  And Mr Pope has called for the government to bring in the new regulations now, not next year as planned.  Next year the government will move to ban the supply of air bombs and to insure no firework on commercial sale exceeds a noise level of 120 decibels.
Pendle MP Mr Prentice said: "I much hope new measures will improve the situation but, if not, we must look at introducing harsher measures."
Ribble Valley MP Mr Evans said: "I don't support a total ban on private fireworks but if they do not succeed the government will have to act further. Fireworks are dangerous and we need to ensure proper control of fireworks."

October 28 2002, This is Lancashire, Prentice welcomes fireworks move
PENDLE'S MP has welcomed the announcement of new government measures to improve firework safety.
Speaking from Westminster, Gordon Prentice said: "The issue of fireworks comes up year after year and I am very much aware of the distress caused to many people, especially the elderly and those with animals. It is certainly time that something was done to improve things."
He said the government had been looking into what action could be taken within existing legislation by putting voluntary restraints on the firework industry. These include stopping the supply of air bombs, ensuring that no firework is louder than 120 decibels and limiting the supply of rockets.
He added: "I know many people would like to see laws passed to regulate fireworks. However, all fireworks sold to the public must comply with the Firework Safety Regulations 1997.
"Although they provide many people with entertainment, we must control the nuisance caused by a few very inconsiderate people