EAST Lancashire MP Peter Pike has urged local people to report anyone who uses fireworks late at night in contravention of new rules.

Tough new regulations have been introduced which aim to stop bangers and other fireworks being used between 11pm and 7am to prevent nuisance to neighbours.

Special exceptions in the new legislation affect Bonfire Night, November 5, New Year's Eve, the Chinese New Year and the Hindu festival, Diwali.

Mr Pike, MP for Burnley, has been a strong supporter of the clampdown of the misuse of fireworks except for November 5 and special occasions.

He said: "It will be difficult to enforce a curfew without the help of everyone within their communities.

"It is important for people to know what the law says about firework use so that we can ensure that a good night's sleep is not disturbed by fireworks throughout the night.

"Anyone letting off fireworks at other times of the year within the curfew will be breaking the law.

"Clearly the law cannot be enforced if the actual location of the offenders is not known so if you see people letting off fireworks when they should not be you can help by reporting their location. It is one way of ensuring you can get some peace and quiet as well."