A Blackburn neighbourhood was turned into a ‘war zone’ as youths battled with fireworks at the weekend.

People could be seen running in all directions as fireworks mayhem gripped Cedar Street in Bastwell.

Groups of young people set off fireworks in the middle of the road at the section just off St James’s Road.

An illegal bonfire has also been built on the side of the road despite the section being fenced off by the owner.

A resident who lives nearby said: “It was total mayhem for a period.

“People were out on the streets and fireworks were going off in all directions. These were not small fireworks but large ones and it didn’t seem like it was going to end.

“Don’t think people were too bothered for their own safety nor anyone else’s.

“Also, there must have a lot of money to buy these fireworks they can’t be cheap.”

Council teams had visited homes in the run up to Bonfire night to speak to residents.

Bastwell and Daisyfield Councillor Shaukat Hussain said: “We did some work ahead of Bonfire night and visited residents in the area.

"They were handed an information leaflet that urged people not to hand over refuse if people came knocking at the door. This was to discourage illegal bonfires.

“We also spoke to police and liaised with them throughout the night.

“On Cedar Street I was out and speaking to some of the groups of people who had gathered. This was after 7pm. A lot of them had balaclavas on and were not from the area.

“They had started an illegal bonfire. The landowner had actually fenced it off but it didn’t make any difference.

“The residents did have a right to be concerned as these fireworks were being let off in a built-up area.

“On the other side of Bastwell on Calder Street, the local community were really helpful and managed to speak to a lot of young people.”

Lancashire Police have been contacted for comment.