Fierworks sales 'must be limited' (From Barry And District News)

Fierworks sales 'must be limited'

AS BARRY braces itself for Hallowe'en, and the run-up to bonfire night, a politician is calling for a crackdown on the sale of fireworks.

Councillors are becoming increasingly concerned at the sheer volume of bangers being let off, usually by youths, night after night in the town.

Town councillor Richard Bertin is now appealing to the Welsh Assembly to put a lid on sales.

He told the News: "People are worried about the firework season. Not only are the users at risk but also pensioners and pets who often fall victim to these nuisances."

Describing the early sale of bangers as "unacceptable", Cllr Bertin says it is time something is done to limit the use of fireworks at other times of the year.

He added: "Controlled sales need to take place. I believe the same amount of sales would occur in the run up week to bonfire night."

Cllr Bertin claims he has seen children as young as five playing with fireworks in his ward.

He said: "As pretty as they are, we must not forget that fireworks can cause horrific injuries.

"It is time the the Assembly, and the Government acted. There should be more support for organised events such as the Barry Firework Festival, reducing the problems caused by early sales."

A spokesman for the National Assembly said: "Unfortunately, trade restrictions are not a devolved matter, but an issue for the Department of Trade and Industry.

"However, a question was asked in the Assembly last week and first minister Rhodri Morgan raised concerns.

"Statistics show more firework related injuries are being treated in casualty departments rather than GP surgeries, suggesting they are more serious. Mr Morgan said this is not acceptable, and that the industry, shop keepers and the DTI need to do something about it."