£80 penalty warning to fireworks louts

Mischief-makers intent on causing trouble over Halloween and Bonfire night will be targeted by police.

As part of Operation Treacle, neighbourhood officers will carry out regular patrols in hotspot areas to target anti-social behaviour and reassure communities.

They will also team up with Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, Trading Standards officers and Rochdale Boroughwide Housing to ensure firework safety and carry out test purchases at off-licenses to stop underage drinking.

Anyone found harassing or intimidating people — from playing with eggs and flour to vandalising property — will face police action in a tough crackdown.

New legislation will also mean that those under the age of 18 face an £80 fine if they are caught in possession of a firework.

Officers have been visiting schools to highlight the consequences of anti-social behaviour and a schools poster competition has been set up.

Residents have been given posters they can display in their windows saying trick or treaters aren’t welcome.

Copies are available at www.safe4autumn.com or by contacting your local Neighbourhood Policing Teams.

Inspector Michelle Hughes said: “We don’t want to spoil anyone’s fun; police and agencies such as the Council, fire service and Trading Standards just want to raise awareness of the consequences of anti-social behaviour. This could be a visit by police to an offender’s home or an £80 on the spot fine and a criminal record. My advice for a safe and enjoyable Halloween and bonfire is to respect others, use fireworks responsibly and attend an organised event.”

Michaela Monk, Principal Trading Standards Officer at Rochdale Council, said: “If you’re hosting a bonfire party this year it’s important that you buy your fireworks from the ‘Good Guy’ retailers. Trading Standards have been working with participating shops to ensure the responsible sale of fireworks so you can enjoy a safer bonfire night.

“Always buy fireworks from a reputable retailer, look out for the ‘Good Guy’ posters and certificates that show they’re part of the scheme. Make sure fireworks have BS 7114 on the box. Never buy fireworks from anywhere you’re unsure about, like the back of a van or an unlicensed market stall.

“There are plenty of well organised fireworks displays and bonfires taking place across the borough. Check out safe4autumn.com for more details.”

Residents are invited to meet officers on Friday to help find solutions to youths causing annoyance.

Contact your local Neighbourhood Policing Team to get involved.