VOTE: Should fireworks sales to the public be banned?

The partnership is working to prevent the sale of illegal fireworks, underage alcohol sales and the creation of illegal bonfires.

The police, Lancashire Fire and Rescue, Trading Standards, as well as Pendle Council’s Operational Services and Neighbourhood Management Teams, wanted to ensure this period isn’t blighted by people being injured through criminal or dangerous behaviour.

Coun. David Whipp, chairman of the partnership, said: “Bonfires and fireworks are exciting for lots of people. They are best enjoyed at properly supervised events.

“The partnership works hard at this time of year to reduce the dangers caused by illegal firework sales and unauthorised bonfires. I would urge people to avoid back street bonfires and dodgy firework displays.”

This work has seen partners conducting joint patrols throughout the borough to identify illegal bonfires which appear in the run-up to the extravaganza.

David Walker, Waste Services Manager (Resource) at Pendle Council, said: “Operations such as this have always been successful in previous years as we have worked closely with our partners to tackle the issues which present a risk to the public at this time of year.”

Police, council licensing officers and Trading Standards also carried out test purchasing operations to identify any businesses which were ignoring the rules when it comes to selling fireworks and alcohol during the build up to bonfire night.

Sgt Natasha Shaw, Pendle’s Multi-Agency Problem Solving (MAPS) Co-ordinator, said: “Public safety is paramount. We are ensuring illegal fireworks are removed from sale, and fireworks are not supplied to anyone under the age of 18.

“Preventing the sale of alcohol to minors will also be a key aim of this operation, as it is often responsible for fuelling instances of anti-social behaviour.”