Pendle residents urged to be considerate with fireworks

As well as it being an offence to set off fireworks late at night and in the early hours of the morning, it is about respecting neighbours, pets and wildlife.

It’s an offence to set off fireworks between the hours of 11pm and 7am, except on Bonfire Night, Diwali, New Year and Chinese New Year - and at any time by individuals anywhere other than their own garden or yard. 

Offences must be reported to the Police. Offenders, on conviction, could be fined up to £5,000 and given a prison sentence of up to six months.

Councillor Asjad Mahmood, Leader of Pendle Borough Council, said: “I have received numerous complaints from residents about the amount of fireworks being set off late at night.

“We understand people want to use fireworks as part of a celebration, but this should be done during the day and at a reasonable hour, not late at night, frightening people and animals.”

Tim Horsley, Pendle Council’s Community Protection Co-ordinator, said: “We’ve again had a number of complaints from residents about extremely loud fireworks being used in neighbourhoods at all times of the day and night.

“The fireworks are being set off with absolutely no regard for the community. It’s not just about preventing people from sleeping; it can distress and frighten people and animals.”

Councillor Dorothy Lord, who leads on community safety in Pendle, added: “As well as being anti-social behaviour, this is really worrying.

“Fireworks can be extremely dangerous if used irresponsibly. This behaviour, no matter how well intentioned, will not be tolerated and we’re reminding residents of the rules on the use of fireworks.”