Bracknell

Bracknell Retailers are being reminded that fireworks to celebrate the New Year can only be sold to the public from Boxing Day to New Year’s Eve.

New laws have been introduced in an attempt to stop anti-social noise and nuisance with fireworks being let off throughout the night over extended periods.

Fireworks can now only be bought around firework night, Diwali, New Year and Chinese New Year, and must not be let off between 11pm (1am at New Year) and 7am. Specialist retailers can sell fireworks throught the year.

Following the end of the firework night sale period – which ran from October 15 to November 10 – Bracknell Forest Borough Council’s trading standards officers visited 10 local businesses to make sure they were following the law.

Only one shopkeeper sold fireworks, while two others said they would attempt to supply the officers with fireworks. These businesses have since been given official warnings.

Rob Sexton, Head of Bracknell Trading Standards and Services, said: When fireworks are bought out of season, they are often the source of nuisance and anti-social behaviour.

We will continue to make sure traders are following the law and ensure fireworks are only sold during the permitted times.”

Cllr Iain McCracken, Executive Member for Leisure, Corporate Services and Public Protection, said: While many of us enjoy watching fireworks, it can be annoying and anti-social when they are constantly being let off long after the specific event.

We will continue to ensure that traders adhere to the new laws so that we can all enjoy the festivities”

Bracknell Forest Borough Council