AS thousands of people enjoyed Darlington's colourful display at South Park, pranksters continued to set off fireworks illegally across the town.

Police are investigating an arson attack in Barningham Street after lit fireworks were twice pushed through a letterbox causing minor damage. The first explosive was put through the door at about 7pm, and the second at 10.20pm.

Acting Inspector Alison Jackson said: "There was a man in the house at the time, but he was unable to see who was responsible. The first firework didn't cause any damage, but the second one caused smoke damage to the entrance hall."

The police and fire brigade were called out to the property and officers are appealing for anyone with information to contact them on (01325) 476681.

Similar incidents have taken place across the town recently, with a lit sparkler pushed through a letterbox in Arundel Drive last Wednesday and a firework caused damage to a house in Marrick Avenue two weeks ago.

On Saturday, officers were called to 14 reports of youths causing annoyance in Darlington, eight of which were firework-related, in areas including Thompson Street, Kitchener Street, Burnside Road and Baltimore Way.

Insp Jackson said: "Kids were throwing fireworks in the streets and using them illegally. By the time officers arrived they had scarpered. All beat officers are aware of the problem areas."

* Arthur Lonsdale, 52, died of smoke inhalation after a lit firework was pushed through the letterbox of his home in Witherwack, Sunderland, 11 days ago.