POLICE in Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale have launched a hard-hitting campaign aimed at curbing the misuse of fireworks in the run up to bonfire night.

As part of the campaign, police officers throughout Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale are visiting shops selling fireworks to remind them of their responsibilities, as well as targeting premises suspected of selling fireworks to underage youngsters.

Police say the campaign has been launched following complaints from residents. The move comes after the government announced today that the 'Air Bomb' brand of fireworks are to be banned from the high street after concerns about their safety were raised.

They are also distributing posters in trouble spots warning youngsters of the dangers of misusing fireworks as well as mounting high visibility patrols.

Last year, police across Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale dealt with more than 400 phone calls from concerned residents leading up to November 5, ranging from calls about juvenile nuisance, the sale of fireworks and damage from fireworks.

Two years ago an 18-year-old man from Burnley was killed after an accident with a firework.

Anyone with information about the illegal sale of fireworks in Burnley can contact Crimestoppers on 08000 555 111.