Anti-social behaviour is up for a blitz

A blitz on firework-fuelled anti-social behaviour in Stafford and Cannock has been launched in the run-up to Halloween and Bonfire Night by police, firefighters and trading standards representatives.

Teams have swung into action to prevent yobbish or dangerous behaviour connected with fireworks, bonfires and "trick or treat" pranks.

The crackdown will include visits to schools and shops, high profile patrols and crime prevention advice.

It ties in with Staffordshire's seasonal Operation Good Guy, which aims to prevent injuries from fireworks and bonfires at this time of year.

Staffordshire Police spokeswoman Emma Stanley said the drive aimed to reduce the anti-social impact of fireworks on the community.

"Businesses will be visited in the run-up to Bonfire Night and regular spot checks will be carried out to identify problems and prevent the illegal sale of fireworks," she said.

"In the evenings, officers will adopt a highly visible approach targeting under-age purchasing, dangerous use of fireworks, ignoring the fireworks curfew between 11pm and 7am, and bonfire nuisance.

"During the forthcoming months, officers will be also visiting schools and urging young people not to participate in pranks such as throwing eggs and flour.

People can report firework problems by telephoning a round-the-clock hotline on 08454 020334 for advice.