September 22 2003, BBC NEWS  Merseyside  Arrest over firework blasts
Merseyside police say they have arrested a man in connection with a series of firework explosions at telephone boxes in Liverpool.
No-one is believed to have been injured in the blasts in the Anfield, Everton and Breckfield areas of the city on Friday night.
A spokeswoman for Merseyside Police said a 21-year-old man from Anfield was arrested on Monday morning.
An operation using CCTV cameras and extra police patrols were put in place after the explosions, which are thought to involve industrial fireworks.

September 22 2003, ic Newcastle - Thugs blamed for fire attacks
A gang of 50 drunken youths are blamed for starting a series of blazes on Tyneside.
Gang members as young as nine stood with bottles of wine in their hands in Wark Crescent, Jarrow, as firefighters tackled three separate rubbish blazes on Friday.
Fire brigade resources were tied up for hours as the youths started bonfires.
During the second incident at 9.30pm, firefighters risked serious injury when the blaze began exploding.
It was discovered that the youths had put an aerosol and fireworks on the fire, causing it to set off a series of explosions.
A brigade spokesman: "This was potentially a very dangerous thing to do and could have caused serious injury."

September 22 2003, This is Leicestershire, MORE BACKING FOR OUR FIREWORKS CODE
A second shopkeeper has joined a Leicester Mercury Roll of Honour and pledged to beat the firework menace.

Balvinder Kaur, who owns Allandale News, Stoneygate, signed up today and urged other shopkeepers to join her.

Shopkeepers who add their names to the roll are promising not to serve under-18s trying to buy fireworks.

Under current laws it is a criminal offence to sell fireworks, including sparklers, to anyone under 18. Offenders can be jailed and fined £5,000.

Mrs Kaur joins Iain Lawrence, director of Fireworks Ltd, Melton Road, who signed up to the scheme on Saturday.

She is expecting a delivery of fireworks this week and said she wanted them to be used sensibly by adults putting on private displays.

She said: "It is really important not to sell to under-18s.

"All our staff are well trained and know to check for identification if they are unsure about a person's age.

"It is important all shopkeepers are sensible and abide by the law.

"I've heard fireworks going off at night. I know how much of a misery it can be for people and how dangerous it is if kids get hold of them.

"If someone over 18 comes in, it's difficult not to serve them.

"But if I'm out and about and see them handing out fireworks to kids, I won't sell to them again.

"If I suspect anything, I won't sell them. It's something we are definitely aware of."

* Pledge your shop to the Mercury Roll of Honour by calling reporter Dan Parkinson on 0116 222 4259.

September 22 2003, This is Leicestershire, POSTBOX ATTACK
Mail was destroyed after yobs threw a lit firework into a postbox.

A fire crew from Wigston fire station was called to the postbox at 7.45pm on Friday.

Letters in the Aylestone Lane postbox were damaged by smoke from the firework.

September 22 2003, This is Leicestershire, UNRULY KIDS
I am writing to express my concerns regarding articles in the Mercury recently.

Firstly, this astounding news that we have such unruly kids in our schools that the powers that be have decided to put police on duty in the schools to control them.

For God's sake, just what is happening here? Are these children so out of control and misbehave at home that the parents expect the schools to keep them under control with a police presence?

What a state we must be getting into for this to happen.

Also, your article about the continuing fireworks menace, which ought to be banned now not next year.

It is driving animals crazy and goes on through the night in the Glen Parva area.

K N, Glen Parva

September 20 2003, BBC NEWS  England  Merseyside  Police investigate fireworks blasts
Merseyside police have begun an investigation after industrial fireworks exploded in seven telephone kiosks in Liverpool.
No-one is believed to have been injured in the blasts, which happened on Friday night.
Police say the offenders have put the lives of innocent people at risk and officers are using all their resources to catch them.
An operation using CCTV cameras and extra police patrols has begun to tackle the problem.
Police are also urging people using phone kiosks to be extra vigilant and to report anything suspicious.
The force has condemned those responsible for what it calls this "dangerous and mindless activity".
It says the offences will be treated seriously by the police and the courts.

September 20 2003, ic Coventry - City firework ban fight 'a success'
A Coventry-led campaign to ban the misuse of fireworks is to become law nationally - but not until next year.
Thousands of people in Coventry backed the city council's petition to end the nuisance of late-night explosions which has plagued neighbours for years.
Fed-up residents are now set to benefit from the new Fireworks Act which yesterday gained Royal Assent and should end the misery of loud bangs in the weeks long before and after November 5.
Although the tough legislation won't apply to Bonfire Night this year, it will come in force next year when firework noise "victims" should see improvements.
The Fireworks Act will enable the government to:
* Ban the use of fireworks during anti-social hours
* Impose a noise limit of 120 decibels on fireworks available to the public
* License people who sell fireworks
* Allow local authorities to refuse and revoke licenses if retailers act inappropriately
* Create a compulsory training course for operators of public firework displays.
The new law has been welcomed by Coventry City Council, city fire chiefs and guide dog owners.
Cllr John McNicholas (Lab, Lower Stoke), who led Coventry's fireworks campaign, was disappointed the new law wouldn't apply for Bonfire Night this year but pleased overall with the breakthrough.
He said: "I'm absolutely delighted that it has been passed and I would like to think Coventry had significant influence.
"We have already prosecuted two shopkeepers and I am pleased to see the majority of shopkeepers are not selling fireworks to underage children but clearly, if they do, we will simply prosecute them.
"I think we are only successful because of the continuing help of the Evening Telegraph and the residents of Coventry.
"Without their very solid support I'm not sure we would have been as successful.
"We are tapping into something of a national problem but we were the first to take it as far as we could, so all credit to Coventry."
Gloria Taylor, Coventry branch secretary of the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association, said: "It's fantastic and will make life a lot easier and certainly a lot better for the guide dogs as they're terrified by fireworks. I think this is absolutely brilliant that this has gone through."

September 20 2003, This is Leicestershire, EVENINGS OF TERROR FOR OAPs
Every evening during the autumn, pensioner Margaret Anderson settles into her armchair knowing she will soon be shaking with fear.

At her time of life she should be able to relax and enjoy some peace and quiet.

But for months each year she is left cowering in her living room until the early hours as explosions erupt around her home.

Like thousands of elderly people across Leicester, the 82-year-old is terrorised by fireworks in the lead-up to bonfire night.

Margaret, who lives alone in Beaumont Leys, said: "I never go out of my room after the fireworks start. It's so frightening. They are so loud they make me jump every time they go off. They sound like bombs dropping from the skies.

"It really makes me shake and I can't get to sleep at night. The fireworks have already started going off where I am and I know it will last for weeks."

Margaret has feared fireworks since a banger was thrown into a phone box as she stood making a call.

She says teenagers often gather in an alley beside her home and set off bangers and rockets.

She lives with the constant worry that one might smash through her windows.

Margaret said: "Ever since the phone box incident, I've been terrified of them. I don't think people care about their neighbours. They set them off until three in the morning.

"The fireworks are just so powerful these days. People need to be more responsible.

"I'm petrified. I hope the people who misuse fireworks are brought to task."

Leicester City Council said it is re-launching its "Bang" campaign to help people like Margaret. A series of posters to be distributed around the city features one with an elderly woman and the slogan "Bang goes my peace and quiet".

September 20 2003, This is Nottingham, SAFETY PLOT TO LIGHT BONFIRES
Organisers of bonfire and firework displays in Amber Valley are being urged to register their events with the borough council.

For the eighth year running, the council is running its Voluntary Bonfire and Fireworks Registration Scheme in partnership with Derbyshire Fire and Rescue and Derbyshire County Council Trading Standards.

Organisers who register their events will receive free safety training at Alfreton Fire Station on Sunday, October 12. They will also receive a free information pack including an organiser's checklist, information on handling fireworks safely, and a step-by-step guide to building and lighting bonfires.

Events which meet fire service safety standards will be issued with a copy of the scheme logo which they can use on their publicity material.

Coun Chris Short, cabinet member for health and leisure, said: "We want to make sure that people enjoy a safe bonfire night."  For details, call Louise Hall on 01773 841308.

September 19 2003, ic Solihull, Fireworks are blown away
A Shirley resident is looking forward to nights of undisturbed sleep as the Fireworks Bill became law this week.
John Davies, of Neville Road, welcomed the passing of the bill, which allows the government to regulate firework use, sales, when they are used and also regulate how loud fireworks can be.
"It's coming up to that time of year again and we have known the noise from fireworks continue right through from November until well into the New Year," he said.
"Sometimes they are still going on at three in the morning and our dog is petrified by it."
A coalition of animal welfare groups, including the RSPCA, was also rejoicing at the news.
"We are delighted this historic opportunity the prevent the widespread suffering of thousands of animals has come to fruition," said a spokesperson.
However, Mr Davies added: "Obviously this is good news, but it relies on the goodwill of people to uphold the law."
A spokesperson for Solihull Council said: "Once the Firework bill receives Royal Assent, we will be provided with a list of the banned fireworks to enable us to carry out our duties.
"During the period in the lead up to Bonfire Night, we are very proactive in checking that goods for sale are legally allowed to be on sale, and also reminding traders of the requirement not to sell fireworks to underage children."

September 19 2003, Leeds Today, A bolt from the blue
A SENIOR Government minister has rejected a statement from his own department which claimed the chance has passed for the rigid control of firework sales.
But controls on firework sales are still on the agenda, says Paul Truswell Pudsey MP following a meeting with Department of Trade and Industry Minister and Bradford MP Gerry Sutcliffe.
Just days ago a Department of Trade and Industry spokeswoman told the Yorkshire Evening Post there would be no blanket ban as a result of the new legislation.
She said: "We recognise there is a legitimate role for fireworks when used sensibly. It is the anti-social behaviour we want to stop."
She said the bill " still going through Parliament " would restrict sales to licensed shops.
Mr Truswell and Shona McIsaac MP (Labour Scunthorpe), Chair of the All Party Firework Group said they immediately called for a Ministerial meeting to discuss the Department of Trade and Industry spokesman's comments."
The Firework Bill, campaigned for by the Yorkshire Evening Post, has passed its parliamentary stages and now awaits Royal Assent."
The YEP launched its Keep the Fireworks for Bonfire Night campaign after being flooded with complaints from readers.
Mr Truswell said it was clear that once the Bill receives Royal Assent, consultation will begin on the regulations covering sales, licences and use that will be introduced as a result."
"I was dismayed but not surprised to hear the YEP had been told that there would be no consideration of restrictions on the period of sale of fireworks," he said.
"Everyone has been cagey about making statements about the Bill in case the industry's supporters in the Commons and Lords decided to block it."
"In Gerry Sutcliffe we have a new Minister who shares our concerns, and who has personal experience of the problems in his own Bradford constituency.
"If anyone can shake the DTI up on this issue, he can.
"It is also clear that we have a powerful ally in David Blunkett, the Home Secretary, who regards fireworks as a serious aspect of anti-social behaviour."

September 19 2003, This is Leicestershire, FIREWORKS CODE
A new Government Act to restrict the use of fireworks is now law.

The Queen yesterday officially granted the Fireworks Act royal assent after its successful final reading in the House of Lords last Monday.

The Fireworks Act gives the Government the power to introduce wide-ranging measures including: on-the-spot fines for under-18s caught messing around with fireworks, tough retail licensing laws, a curfew banning firework use late at night and restricting firework sales to certain times of the year, such as around November 5.

September 19 2003, This is Nottingham, FIREWORKS ACT VICTORY
The Queen granted the Fireworks Act royal assent yesterday.

It followed a successful final reading in the House of Lords last Monday.

The Act has been hailed by politicians and police chiefs in Nottingham as a vital tool in clamping-down on bored youths letting-off fireworks at all hours - disturbing residents and pets.

The Fireworks Act gives the Government the power to introduce wide-ranging measures.

They include: fining under-18s caught messing around with fireworks on the spot; introducing tough retail licensing laws and a curfew banning firework use late at night; and restricting firework sales to certain times of the year, such as around November 5 - although the choice is ultimately up to Ministers.

It is a major boost for the Post's Be Safe Not Sorry campaign, which called for restrictions on the sale of fireworks, so only organisers of official public displays can buy them.

Notts police authority chairman Coun John Clarke urged Post readers to keep campaigning to make sure the new powers are used wisely.

"We welcome this Bill because we have campaigned for these laws to be put in place, along with the Evening Post, the city council and the fire authority," he added.

The Fireworks Act, a Private Members' Bill introduced by Scottish backbencher Bill Tynan MP in December, has survived 14 parliamentary debates to get to this stage.

It now has to undergo three months of public consultation - ruling it out for Bonfire Night this year. But campaigners predict it should be in force early in 2004.

September 18 2003,  ManchesterOnline - News, 'Don't cash in' plea to firework traders
ROGUE firework traders hoping to cash in on the last Bonfire Night before a major clampdown have been warned to think again.

Manchester councillors are using a combination of muscle and moral pressure to stop sales until three weeks before November 5.

They have already ripped down one banner advertising powerful rockets with the mobile phone number of a man who offers to sell the goods out of a van.

The council has also launched a charter asking 250 licensed firework traders to sign a pledge to stick by the "three weeks" rule. That will be a legal requirement by Bonfire Night next year after a pioneering Fireworks Bill, backed by the M.E.N. was approved by the Lords this week.
The Bill, which includes 11pm curfews on displays, is unlikely to get Royal Assent - when the Queen agrees to make it law - until early next year.

The M.E.N. has called for an all-out ban on over-the-counter sales in a long-running campaign but supports the middle way put forward by politicians.

Ban
The council hopes its charter will make it clear which of Manchester's firework sellers are serious about safety.

All traders will get a letter, signed by the police and fire service, asking them to sign a "no sales before October 16" pledge.
The council has also formed a hit squad to investigate potentially dodgy firework sales throughout the city.
Coun Pat Karney, chairman of the social strategy scrutiny committee, said: "We will be taking note of traders not signing up to our charter."

Coun Karney and his committee have removed one banner, in Oldham Road, Miles Platting, advertising Bad Boy fireworks, among the most powerful.

Both Coun Karney and the M.E.N. have phoned a mobile phone number on the banner and been told fireworks could be bought from a trader's van.

"He can expect a visit from the police and fire service," said Coun Karney.

Have your say on fireworks at www.manchesteronline.co.uk

September 18 2003, Express and Star, New law close on firework controls
MP Debra Shipley has welcomed laws for tighter controls on noisy fireworks which cause misery for thousands of residents.
The Stourbridge Labour MP said she was pleased a Private Members Bill had been passed by the House of Lords to prevent misuse of fireworks.
New measures will ban use of fireworks during anti-social hours, make the noisiest devices illegal, restrict all-year round sales and impose stricter rules on the training of people who give displays.
The bill is expected to be made law by the end of the autumn, with the new measures put in place by 2004.
Miss Shipley said: "I know from all the letters I receive that many local people dread the approach of November 5.
"The fireworks season seems to get longer each year. As well as the noise nuisance caused by misuse of fireworks, many people are concerned about distress to animals."
The Fireworks Bill received the backing of the Government earlier this year and is supported by a wide range of fireworks industry and animal protection organisations.
Miss Shipley has been a firm supporter of legislation to stop the danger and nuisance associated with fireworks misuse.
She has campaigned on the issue in Parliament through the all-party group on Fireworks Misuse on behalf of residents.
"Although it is too soon to expect change this year, I will be watching closely to make sure change is implemented as quickly as possible," she said.

September 18 2003, This is Cheshire, Sparkling victory for fireworks campaign
CAMPAIGNERS in Newton are celebrating after legislation passed through Parliament yesterday restricting the sale and use of fireworks.
The victory is even more sweet, as the campaign to tighten controls on firework use started in Newton.
Under the new law, fireworks will be controlled by restricting their sale and use to certain times of the day and year while public firework displays will be licensed.
The 'Make Fireworks Fun Again' campaign was organised and piloted by Newton west councillors Sandra Banawich and Leon McGuire and first reported in the Newton Guardian last October in a bid to raise awareness about the dangers and nuisance of fireworks.
Along with dedicated Newton residents they campaigned for restrictions on what time of day fireworks can be set off, tougher penalties for outlets caught selling fireworks to children and a limit on times of year they can be set off.
And it wasn't long before the home-grown campaign rollercoasted beyond all expectations gaining the backing of more than 3,000 people in the borough in less than a month, and that of Newton MP Dave Watts, local vets, the fire brigade, Age Concern, The RSPCA and the TUC. By November last year, the campaign was gathering momentum when Consumer Minister Melanie Johnson announced tough new measures to cut the injuries and nuisance caused by fireworks.
It is hoped the new package of measures will stop the supply of so-called 'air bomb fireworks' and ensure that no fireworks exceed noise levels of more than 120 decibels.
Newton west councillor Sandra Banawich said: "It's great news that the House of Lords passed the Fireworks Bill unopposed last night.
"We were a bit concerned that they may table amendments and the Bill might have been stalled but it zipped through. I'm sure public pressure played a big part in this.
"I'm delighted it has passed through the final hurdle unchallenged with no amendments attached.
The 2,000 Newton people who signed the firework petition will now get exactly what they asked for - a clampdown on the all-year-round availability of fireworks and stricter licensing of retailers.
"It proves that people power can win through if the determination is there and I'd like to thank everyone who helped out with the campaign in Newton.
"The Bill should receive royal assent by the end of the month."
In a recent MORI poll, 71 per cent of people surveyed agreed that loud fireworks should only be used at public displays.

September 18 2003, This is Nottingham, ACTION PLEA ON FIREWORKS
A Nottingham councillor targeted by firework-wielding thugs is urging police to enforce the new Fireworks Bill when it comes into force.

Coun Rob Lee was hit by a firework last Monday while talking to a friend in Gabrielle Close, Old Basford.

Around 15 teenagers ran on to the street on the Oakleigh Estate closely pursued by two others carrying fireworks.

The first firework to be set alight hit a house, the second hit a car, and the third exploded on the councillor's foot, with the final one covering him in a shower of sparks.

Coun Lee, who escaped injury, said: "I was angry more than shocked. There seemed to be no remorse. They just ignored the fact that someone could have been hurt. They just carried on as if nothing had happened."

Scottish MP Bill Tynan's Fireworks Bill, backed by the Post's Be Safe Not Sorry campaign, is expected to receive the Royal seal of approval and become law today.

The Fireworks Bill gives the Government power to introduce measures including on-the-spot fines for under-18s caught messing around with fireworks, tough retail licensing laws, and restricting firework sales to certain times of the year.

However, Coun Lee believes the legislation won't be worth the paper it is written on if the police do not crack down on fireworks abuse.

Speaking about his own ordeal, Coun Lee said: "Even though the police responded, the problem didn't go away. Youths were still there after the police had been. We heard them late into the night with fireworks going off and they've been back since.

"I'm getting complaints all over the ward about youth crime. There's still not enough done by the police to tackle the problem of youth disorder and fireworks just make it worse.

"It's an ongoing problem and the police need to tackle it in a more systematic manner."

A police spokeswoman said: "We received a number of calls relating to fireworks being set off around the Oakleigh Estate area on September 15.

"Officers attended the scene within 19 minutes. Unfortunately, after an extensive patrol of the area the offenders had dispersed."

September 18 2003, This is Nottingham, LAW IS NOT THE WHOLE ANSWER
The bonfire season is still six weeks away, but already we are reporting on the dangerous misuse of fireworks.

This year the public should be offered greater protection from yobs by the imminent introduction of the Fireworks Act, which embraces some of the safeguards we demanded in our Be Safe Not Sorry campaign.

But here we must echo the point made by Coun Rob Lee, who was hit by a firework in the latest incident.

The law is only as good as the ability of the police, councils and courts to enforce it.

We hope those who defy the Act will be dealt with severely.

September 17 2003, Express and Star, New controls over fireworks
Two Sandwell MPs have welcomed plans for tighter controls on noisy fireworks which cause misery for thousands of residents in the borough.
West Bromwich MPs Tom Watson and Adrian Bailey have collected thousands of names on a petition calling for a ban on nuisance fireworks.
A Private Members Bill has now been passed by the House of Lords which prevents the misuse of fireworks.
The new measures will ban the use of fireworks during anti-social hours, make the noisiest devices illegal, restrict all year round sale and impose stricter rules on the training of people who give displays.
Mr Bailey, MP for West Bromwich West, said: "Local support for this campaign throughout the year has been overwhelming, many people were simply fed up with the nuisance caused by fireworks.
"Fireworks are once again flying through the air at totally unreasonable hours. This shows a total lack of respect for the rest of us living in the area and is just not acceptable.
"The sooner we see these laws implemented the better."
Mr Watson, the West Bromwich East MP, said: "This will hopefully now be the last year we have to put up with noisy fireworks at all times of the day and night, even if there is no reason or celebration for them to be let off.
"Once this law comes into force we will finally have the powers we need to deal with the misuse of fireworks."
Both MPs have been campaigning in parliament for the new rules for a number of months.
The House of Lords has approved the Private Members Bill which outlines a number of new controls to tackle the misuse of fireworks.
The Bill is expected to be made law by the end of the autumn with the new measures put into force by 2004.

September 17 2003, This is Dorset, Parliament agrees it's bang out of order
THE campaign for a crackdown on nuisance fireworks has ended in success for Daily Echo readers.
A bill which has cleared its final hurdle in parliament will allow the government to place more restrictions on their sale and use.
More than 4,500 readers signed up to our Bang Out of Order campaign following a rising tide of complaints about fireworks let off for months either side of November 5.
The new legislation gives power to the government to restrict the period over which fireworks can be sold and to limit the size of authorised fireworks. The Firework Bill, introduced by Labour MP Bill Tynan and backed by local MPs of all parties, should receive royal assent within days.
Annette Brooke, Liberal Democrat MP for Mid-Dorset and North Poole, said: "The Echo's Bang out of Order campaign on improving the control of firework sales was a great success. Cross party support from MPs and thousands of constituents contributed to the bill's success."
Trade and industry secretary Patricia Hewitt will now publish draft regulations, which will be subject to a three-month public consultation.
Poole MP Robert Syms said: "This bill will promote the responsible use of fireworks by limiting the hours of the day and confining general sale to the public to a relatively short period before November 5, in addition to the ban on `air bombs' and other measures announced last year."
What do you think of the introduction of restrictions? Have you experienced problems with fireworks? Call our news story response line on 01202 411455.

September 16 2003,  ManchesterOnline - News, Curfew victory on fireworks
TOUGH new laws aimed at keeping fireworks out of the hands of hooligans have cleared their final hurdle.

The House of Lords last night approved the Fireworks Bill, proposing 11pm curfews on displays and noise limits, and it is certain to get on the statute books.

Although the Bill will not ban over-the-counter sales of fireworks - as demanded by the M.E.N.'s Stay Safe campaign - it does restrict the supply, purchase and possession, especially of loud and dangerous ones, at particular times.

The M.E.N. has been campaigning for action since before the Scottish Labour MP Bill Tynan put forward his Bill, spurred on by the 1,362 injuries caused by fireworks last year, a 40 per cent increase.

But the tighter restrictions are unlikely to come into effect in time for this year's Bonfire Night and Manchester city council, supporting the M.E.N. campaign, is planning to take its own stand against the injury, noise and distress fireworks cause.
One of the main measures in the Bill is a limit on fireworks sales, so they are available over the counter only three weeks before November 5.

The city council is asking shopkeepers to voluntarily accept these restrictions.

The Fireworks Bill was given its third reading in the Lords without debate. Trade Minister Lord Sainsbury has told peers that, although there will not be a general ban on fireworks, it will allow certain fireworks to be restricted.

Peter Pike, Labour MP for Burnley, today welcomed the Bill, which he said would dampen irresponsible sales and use of fireworks, while protecting organised and responsible firework displays.

"The irresponsible use of fireworks can result in misery and distress in our communities," he said.

"Too many firework-related accidents continue to occur, and all too frequently they have got into the hands of those who should not have access to them."

He said the noise of fireworks had already begun and would continue through to December, with evidence of spent fireworks in school playgrounds and on public paths.

"Hearing loud bangs late at night is not only disturbing to people living in our communities but it can be extremely distressing to pets," said Mr Pike.

"It should be perfectly reasonable to expect fireworks not to be let off between the hours of 11pm and 7am."

September 16 2003, This is Brighton & Hove, Law bans firework pests
Big bangers and late-night fireworks have been banned in a victory for Brighton and Hove campaigners.
The Fireworks Bill, which yesterday received Royal Assent in the House of Lords, is expected to be welcomed by many although some will say it does not go far enough.
The campaign was led by Ivor Caplin, Hove MP and Defence Minister, who said the Bill would crack down on the irresponsible use of fireworks.
He said: "This is the first time the Government has ever acted on fireworks and the campaign has been successful because of pressure from local communities in Brighton and Hove.
"I enjoy well-organised displays but fireworks are now being let off throughout the year, any time of the night or day and are causing great distress to people and their pets."
The new law makes it an offence to sell fireworks to under-18s, bans the use of fireworks beyond 11pm, and forbids the use of loud bangers to all except licensed and trained firework operators.
Mr Caplin said big annual displays, authorised by local authorities, would not be affected.
He said: "Families will still be able to enjoy traditional boxes of fireworks in back gardens but this will ban the irresponsible use of fireworks that causes so much upset."
Mr Caplin said details of which fireworks specifically would fall under the ban had yet to be ironed out.
Offenders, he said, would be punished by way of fines of "up to four figures" but again those details had still to be finalised.
He said: "This is a sensible approach to the problem and one that will allow people to continue enjoying fireworks but, at the same time, bring improvements.
It will reduce late-night noise, improve the environment and it will reduce the chances of accidents.
"This law means the noise nuisances caused by the random letting-off of fireworks can now be dealt with."

September 16 2003, This is Nottingham, VICTORY NEAR IN FIREWORKS BATTLE
The Evening Post's victory on firework abuse is close enough to touch after the Fireworks Bill passed its final stage in the House of Lords.

The Bill, which gives the Government unprecedented power to curtail firework abuse, passed its third reading stage in the Lords yesterday.

It follows a ruling last Tuesday by the Lords, in which the Bill - backed by Post readers - was unanimously approved.

Parliamentary insiders predict the Bill, which has gained unprecedented support from MPs, residents, charities and the industry, will gain the Royal seal of approval on Thursday.

The progress of the Bill, backed by the Post's Be Safe Not Sorry campaign, has been welcomed by a coalition of the country's leading animal welfare groups.

A spokesman for the Animal Welfare Fireworks Coalition, which includes the RSPCA and Guide Dogs for the Blind, said: "We are delighted this historic opportunity to prevent the widespread suffering of animals is coming to fruition."

The Fireworks Bill is an enabling Act.

It gives the Government power to introduce measures including on-the-spot fines for under-18s caught messing around with fireworks, tough retail licensing laws, a curfew banning firework use late at night and restricting firework sales to certain times of the year, such as around November 5. The choice is up to Ministers. Last week, Broxtowe MP Dr Nick Palmer urged citizens to keep up their campaign to ensure the Government uses its powers wisely.

He said: "I believe that these powers may actually not be enough, and we need to carry on campaigning, but this is a step in the right direction," he said.

The Fireworks Bill, a private member's Bill introduced by backbench Scottish MP Bill Tynan in December, has overcome intense opposition and survived 14 parliamentary debates to get to this stage.

September 11 2003, ic Coventry, £800 'rocket' for city shopkeeper
A Coventry businessman has been fined £800 for selling fireworks to underage teenagers despite warnings and advice from trading standards officers
Bharat Bushan Shukla, 41, of Outermarch Road, Radford, pleaded guilty to a single charge of breaching the Consumer Protection Act in a hearing at Coventry Magistrates Court yesterday.
The court heard Shukla, who owns Eshan Electrical in Foleshill Road, was visited by trading standards officers on October 17.
During their visit they advised him to check for identification on youngsters looking to buy fireworks, and handed him advice and information on the law.  Two weeks later, two teenagers aged 14 and 15, were sent into the shop by trading standards officers. They asked for £2 of rocket fireworks.  They paid for the items and walked out of the shop.  Vicki Buckley, prosecuting, showed the magistrates pictures of the two teenagers.
In mitigation, the court heard that the Consumer Protection Act forbids traders to sell fireworks to youngsters under the 'apparent' age of 18 - and that Shukla may not have realised the youngsters' true ages.
Chairman of the bench Colin Groom said: "You were warned and advised that tests were about to take place in the area.
"You also failed to display the notice provided by the trading standards officer to check the identity of those children.
"The community relies on traders like yourself to uphold the law and in this case you failed to do so."

September 11 2003, This is Brighton & Hove, Fireworks are the problem
This council has given financial support to Campaign for Residents Against Portobello (CRAP) to oppose an incinerator in Newhaven.
It is my opinion, and my opinion only, that to support firework displays is not in keeping with our support to CRAP.
There are more dioxins produced in Lewes on one night than any incinerator would produce in a year and, with firework displays now being a regular weekend occurrence in the area, I am not happy to support these displays.
Any decision that the council comes to will be a democratic majority vote. Many hundreds of Peacehaven residents signed against an incinerator in Newhaven and all councillors will have to make up their own mind how to balance public opinion in their own wards.
Fireworks have not been ruled out but there are other concerns.
John Livings, Peacehaven Town Council

September 10 2003, ic Newcastle - Warning over killer fireworks
Potentially lethal bootleg fireworks are being sold door-to-door, police warned today.
The fireworks are illegal here but police believe they are being snapped up on booze runs to the continent and then sold to children.
Insp Bob Spence, head of the crime and disorder unit at Farringdon Police Station, in Sunderland, said: "Unscrupulous dealers are selling four fireworks for £1, according to our information."
The illegal trade came to light after youths set off fireworks in Silksworth and Doxford Park. Shops agreed a voluntary code of conduct not to sell fireworks until four weeks before Guy Fawkes Night, prompting police to probe where the bangers were coming from.

September 10 2003, This is Nottingham, POST FIGHT IS ALMOST THERE
The Evening Post campaign to end the terror of firework abuse is nearing the finishing line - but Broxtowe MP Nick Palmer has warned there is still plenty of work left to do.

Last night the House of Lords unanimously approved Scottish MP Bill Tynan's Fireworks Bill, backed by our Be Safe Not Sorry campaign, meaning there is now just one final hurdle before the legislation gets royal assent and becomes law.

Parliamentary insiders are predicting the Bill, which has already gained unprecedented support from MPs, residents, charities and the industry, will gain the royal seal of approval next Thursday.

The Fireworks Bill is an enabling Act and will give the Government powers to introduce wide-ranging measures including:

On-the-spot fines for under-18s caught misusing fireworks.

Tough retail licensing laws.

A curfew banning firework use late at night.

Restrictions on firework sales to certain times of the year, such as around November 5.

But despite widespread support for the legislation, Broxtowe MP Dr Palmer said the Bill was only the start, and called on the Government to produce even tougher legislation to make a difference to people's lives.

He said: "Local councils get the power and the next stage is to work with them to have restrictions imposed in a way that is appropriate to the area.

"I believe that these powers may actually not be enough and we need to carry on campaigning, but this is a step in the right direction."

The Fireworks Bill has survived 14 Parliamentary debates to get to this stage.

Few private members Bills, which give MPs the chance to introduce their own laws, make it on to the statute book.

September 9 2003, Evening Chronicle, Vent Your Spleen
I would like to know why it is that the fireworks are now starting already and we are only in the early party of September.  I think it is absolutely disgraceful I don't think the police are doing anything about it.
CL Benwell

September 9 2003, ic Lanarkshire, New explosives factory plan causes fireworks
NEWMAINS residents are uniting against a bid by an English-based fireworks company to build an explosives factory in the area. The factory, capable of storing 199 tonnes of explosives, would be run by Global Fireworks Ltd, whose registered office is at a solicitors' firm in Sherburn-in-Elmet, Leeds. They have applied to North Lanarkshire Council for planning permission and objections, if any, must be heard by September 25.
One local resident has hit out at the plans, she said: "We already have enough problems with fireworks without a factory being built in the area. "I think that when people here about this proposal they will be totally against it and hopefully we can get it stopped. "It's only September and my dog is already scared to leave the house with the amount of fireworks that are let off. If this factory opens I can't imagine how bad it would be. "It was my neighbour who told me about it and people I have spoken to since are horrified by the idea of this type of factory being opened."
Objections are highly likely, if Newmains councillor David McKendrick's reaction is any indication. He said: "I am 125 per cent against this. There are enough fireworks in Newmains without having a factory here that manufactures or stores them. "If the factory gets the go-ahead it will scupper any plans for further development in the area. "Added to this is the fact that the Government and the Scottish Executive are totally against fireworks, so why would they allow a company to manufacture them."
Under the Explosives Act, 1875, a licence from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) must be approved by the relevant local authority. To this end, North Lanarkshire Council will hold a hearing at Motherwell Civic Centre at 10am on Friday, October 3, and a copy of the HSE's draft licence and a plan of the proposed facility are available for inspection, Monday to Friday, from 8.45 am till 4.45 pm.
Paul Burgess, spokesman for the HSE, explained: "We draw up the licence, but it is the local authority who have the final approval on the proposal. "The HSE are a statutory independent body who give advice to both sides in an even-handed manner. "In considering the proposal, we adhere to extremely strict limits and the chief inspector from our Explosives Directorate will be involved. "Members of the public can attend the hearing, and can also submit any objections they have in writing, and then it is our job to advise whether the objections are valid or not according to the terms of the Explosives Act."

September 9 2003, This is Nottingham, FIREWORK CURFEW ON CARDS
Campaigners in Nottingham who demanded a crackdown on firework abuse are now just days from victory.

Peers in the Lords are tonight set to debate the Fireworks Bill - which could lead to a curfew on fireworks.

And Parliamentary insiders expect the legislation to be passed next Thursday.

The bill, which is widely supported by MPs and peers, is a massive victory for Notts campaigners.

The Post's Be Safe Not Sorry campaign calls for more restrictions on the sale of fireworks.

John Heppell, Labour MP for Nottingham East, said: "I think we need to be careful we do not rule this bill out for religious festivals, but I am in favour of the Fireworks Bill.

"The local mailbag has always got some in from someone whose life has been desperately affected by fireworks being fired by irresponsible youths at all hours of the day and night. Fireworks need to be subject to more controls."

Nottingham North MP Graham Allen said: "The people of Nottingham should be thrilled that a long campaign by this newspaper has had a positive result.

"It's a good day for Nottingham. It's a good day for the Evening Post. It's a good day for all of us. And let's not forget the animals who will be spared so much misery."

A curfew will ban fireworks after 11pm. It will restrict their sale to the general public to a short period before November 5 and impose a noise limit.

There will also be a two-tier licensing system, distinguishing between sales to private buyers and organisations putting on public displays.

These licences, which will be withdrawn if there is any infringement, will cover internet and mail-order sales.

The Fireworks Bill is set to undergo detailed debate in the Lords tonight.

If passed unamended, it will move to its last and final Parliamentary stage, the Third Reading. After this it could get the Queen's seal of approval.

September 8 2003, Salford Advertiser - Sparks fly as firework ban delayed
TOUGH new laws to restrict the sale and use of dangerous fireworks, spurred on by The Advertiser, will not come into force until after this year's Bonfire Night.
The delay means potentially lethal display fireworks will continue to be available over the counter in the run up to and well beyond November 5.
The new regulations are due to take effect from December - over a year after The Advertiser won backing from the city's top politicians, police officers and fire chiefs for our campaign to rid our streets of lethal fireworks.
Fears are now growing that lives will once again be on the line as bomb-type fireworks are used and abused by the general public.
The Advertiser launched a bid to change the law with our hugely successful 'Shop a Shop' campaign in which hundreds of readers helped stop retailers selling fireworks to children.
Our efforts were spurred on following last year's Bonfire Night horror stories including that of 18-year-old Adam Sotheron who had his hand blown off after picking up a 4ft long display rocket, and toddler Courtney Monaghan who was hit by a firework while she watched an organised display with her mother.
We travelled to London armed with a giant petition which we handed to long-standing fireworks campaigner Eccles MP Ian Stewart, who read it out in the Commons giving weight to the campaign.
The following day a Bill was passed in Parliament. Despite having to go through various stages, supporters believed the new laws would be passed by November 5. But delays and red tape now mean it won't.
Salford's lead member for crime and disorder, Cllr David Lancaster blasted the delays by parliament as 'disgusting' and said: 'I find it amazing that it is going to take them a year to sort out. There are real fears that lives could be put at risk if, as happened last year, larger fireworks are on sale to the public'
Chief Superintendent Brian Wroe, Salford's divisional commander, said: 'I am deeply disappointed and I think the government has let down the people of Salford. An opportunity has been missed to prevent the sort of disorder that has now become commonplace around Bonfire Night.
'The people of Salford and many other towns and cities have to put up with tremendous amounts of noise, not to say danger as well, which could easily be put right by some strong action by the government. One would have thought they would have been eager to have the legislation in place to deal with these problems.'

September 6 2003, Express and Star, Battle hotting up to halt fireworks
Pensioners in some areas of the Black Country feel like prisoners in their own home because of fireworks being let off.
And, as new laws are prepared to curb the nuisance, campaigners warn that the problem is continuing to escalate to alarming levels.
Anyone can sell fireworks at any time of the year, as long as they pay a registration fee of just £13 to store the pyrotechnics.
There are around 175 shops in Wolverhampton registered to sell fireworks, up to 150 shops in Dudley borough, around 80 in Sandwell and up to 60 shops in each of the Stafford, Cannock and Lichfield areas.
The new laws would restrict the selling of fireworks to the three weeks around November 5.
But that brings in new concerns that a trade in illegal fireworks could develop.
Councillor Linda Turton, who represents West Bromwich Central, said she knew people who were "terrified" of fireworks.
Dennis Webb, of Age Concern Wolverhampton, said fireworks were going off at all times of the year and some people became prisoners in their own home.
Campaigns are under way to ensure the fireworks bill is introduced, including Black Country chip shop owner Martin Phillips, who suffered a spate of firework attacks on his shop including where a 17-year-old girl was almost blinded when a lit firework was thrown at her face.
Chris Pearce, managing director of Jubilee Fireworks Ltd, in Kingswinford, who is chairman of the British Pyrotechnicists Association, said the industry was doing all it could to tackle the problems of irresponsible use of fireworks were causing.
"There have been moves to tackle the issues of noise nuisance and there is a voluntary code of practice.
"To some people they are a joy, to others they are a nuisance, but the traditional airbombs that are noisy are no longer being produced."

September 5 2003, ic Liverpool - Yobs target post boxes
A GANG of yobs exploded three post boxes in an hour after putting lighted fireworks inside them.
The group started by sliding a firework inside a post box on Cavendish Drive, in Walton, at just after 11pm last night (Thursday, September 4).
Around half-an-hour later they arrived at Penny Lane, in Allerton, and exploded another box.
And at just before midnight they then did the same thing at the junction of Sandown Lane and Long Mane, in Wavertree.
Police today said they yobs caused hundreds of pounds worth of damage during the vandalism spree.
A series of tests are now being completed on the post boxes to determine exactly what the thugs used.
A Merseyside Police spokeswoman said: "A total of three post boxes were damaged during the hour.
"They were exploded but at this stage we cannot say exactly how this was achieved and tests are being carried out.
"We would appeal to the public for help in finding the offenders and if anyone has information they should get in touch.
"This vandalism causes a lot of damage and totally destroys mail - we are determined to stop it happening."
If anyone can help with the investigation they should call 0151 777 5114 or use Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

September 5 2003, ic Solihull - MP backs move over fireworks
SOLIHULL MP John Taylor has promised to support moves to curb the use of fireworks which are dangerous or very noisy.
He was replying to a constituent who wrote to him complaining about fireworks being let off throughout the year, not just around November 5.
Julian Haslam, of Union Road, Shirley, said fireworks used to be pretty things that did not make a great deal of noise.
But now they were reminiscent of the Blitz. "Our evenings and nights are punctuated by loud explosions which sound like howitzer shells detonating."
Mr Haslam, a 39-year-old computer programmer, said fireworks were potentially dangerous, anti-social and caused much distress to elderly people and animals.
They could cause terrible injuries and some shops sold fireworks all the year round. "They are being bought by irresponsible yobs who then let them off at night in school playgrounds."
Mr Haslam suggested that any new legislation governing fireworks should stipulate that they could only be sold to organisations holding organised displays.
But if the general public were still allowed to buy fireworks, the times they could be let off should be restricted to the first few days of November and New Year's Eve. There should also be a decibel limit for all fireworks.
In his reply, Mr Taylor said he had always taken a
very strong line on fireworks, particularly when he was a minister in the Department of Trade and Industry. He had been responsible for putting a severe limitation on mortar-type fireworks and aerial shells.
"Fireworks are explosives and one person injured or animal frightened is one too many." The MP also told Mr Haslam he could be sure of his support in any campaign to control the use of fireworks.

September 5 2003, This is Devon, Noisy Firework Displays Are Frightening Our Pets
I write in response to D Gregory's letter regarding fireworks, Echo, August 26. There has certainly been numerous firework displays lately, between 10pm-11pm, which seem to come from the university area.
Pets are frightened by the noise, and this cannot be prepared for if fireworks are to be let off at all times of the year.
I thought there was new legislation regarding displays having to be organised and only being able to occur once a year at traditional times.
As D Gregory says, they ought to be licensed.
I am fed up with the noise from these fireworks, but it is better than the steel drum sound we had to endure a couple of months ago, which went on until after 3am.
A W, Exeter

September 3 2003, This is Leicestershire - FIREWORKS NUISANCE
Why on earth do they allow shops to sell fireworks before November 5? Fireworks are being let off in August. There is no discipline at all.
Miss C M, Loughborough.

September 3 2003, This is Bradford, Letters to the Editor
SIR - Yet again as the summer comes, fireworks start to annoy and injure people. I feel I must reply to the recent contributors to your letters page.
Firstly, yes, Bradford does have problems with firework misuse and abuse. Inconsiderate use of these noisy but beautiful explosives cause the elderly, infirm or the very young grief because of the sudden and often prolonged noise.
Pets are also seriously affected. Because dogs' hearing is more acute than humans the noise causes panic and discontent. Guide dogs have been targeted and this causes great problems not only for the dog but also for their owners.
The more frightening aspects of firework misuse and abuse are the injuries caused mainly to young people. Bradford is top of the DTI injuries list. The laws regarding sales are dealt with by Trading Standards; noise is covered by Environmental Health; throwing, dangerous use and discharge of fireworks is dealt with by the police.
If anyone is still not happy then contact your MP.
Marsha Singh, Ann Cryer and Gerry Sutcliffe all support the changes in the laws that are being called for in Parliament.
Bradford Council and relevant agencies are running a firework safety and awareness campaign this year, so keep your eyes open. Competitions are running in schools, so everyone can be involved.
Elizabeth Hellmich, (SAFE Project and Firework Safety campaigner), Parkside Grove, Heaton.

September 2 2003, ic Huddersfield - Fireworks in the morning
PEOPLE living in the Colne Valley were surprised by the noise of fireworks this morning. The bangs were between 8am and 10am.  Black Cat Fireworks, based at Crosland Hill, was testing fireworks at its site and will be doing so again on September 24.

September 2 2003, This is Gloucestershire, STRESSED PETS FLEE FIREWORKS
A Cat, frightened by a firework, jumped 15ft out of a window . Avril Dooley's tabby, Hobbs, made a dash for the window on Saturday evening after being scared by firework display at the Cheltenham Park Hotel.
Mrs Dooley, of Cirencester Road, Charlton Kings, said: "We'd deliberately tried to calm them down before it started but Hobbs was a bit too nervous. "A firework shot over the house and made a huge bang which scared him to death.''
Pat O'Dea of Bafford Lane, was also affected by the fireworks. She said: "Last week my cat got such a fright it savaged me. "The displays have become really annoying and I wish they'd stop."
A member of staff at the Cheltenham Park Hotel in Cirencester Road said the manager did not want to comment.

September 1 2003, This is Leicestershire - PROMISES GOING UP IN SMOKE
I am genuinely sorry to read the letters in Mercury Postbag, on August 16, "Plagued by Fireworks", and "The agony begins again".  It has to be stated that maniacs have also been discharging fireworks at night here in Thurmaston in the past month.  It seems that those few idiots who are responsible for this just can't wait for October to arrive, when the proper "blasting" season starts. They have decide to have their so-called fun earlier this time.  B West asked: "The furore last year about fireworks and steps to be taken, what has happened? Nothing."
Clearly, this refers to the Government's announcement earlier this year that they would look into the menace caused by fireworks, but to no avail. This is hardly surprising when you consider, over the last six years, there have been numerous Government initiatives regarding many diverse issues. Sadly, most have been allowed to fall by the wayside.
R K, Thurmaston.