Letting off fireworks is bang out of order

CONCERNS have been raised that gangs of youths are roaming the streets and letting off fireworks.

Residents have reported a large number of fireworks erupting in recent weeks, causing anxiety to themselves and their pets.

Mike Kennedy, chairman of Grange Residents' Association, said: "They are being let off at night and more and more people are becoming annoyed by it.

"One of the main concerns is that animals get very scared by the loud bangs. They have enough to cope with considering the extremely warm weather we are experiencing without these fireworks."

Mike is urging police to tackle the problem and allow residents to have a peaceful night's sleep.

He said: "You can understand it in the weeks leading up to bonfire night but not in July.

"I have no idea where they are getting their hands on them because I was under the impression that you aren't allowed to buy fireworks all year round. I can't see why, all of a sudden, we are suffering but I would like something done about it."

Mike is also concerned about the safety of the fireworks.

He added: "We don't know if these are legal or illegal so there are obviously safety concerns.

"But even if they are legal the people who are letting them off are using them in an anti-social way and could cause injury to themselves or people nearby.

"I don't think it is acceptable for fireworks to be set off during the summer months and I would like the people responsible to think about the effect it is having on people living in Winsford."