POLICE chiefs have warned that they will be issuing fixed £80 penalty tickets to people who misuse fireworks in North Yorkshire this year.

With Bonfire Night imminent, the force is warning that yobbish firework misbehaviour will not be tolerated, and officers have new powers.

They can now issue fixed penalty notices to people setting off fireworks late at night, throwing fireworks, youngsters caught with fireworks, or adults found with high-powered display fireworks.

Those who refuse to pay will face an increased fine of £120.

Senior officers say benefits to the police are that officers will be freed from form-filling and administration, enabling them to spend more time on front-line duties.

Assistant Chief Constable David Collins said: "There is a host of legislation and police powers all around this subject, but really it is just a matter of simple common sense.

"We have the powers if we need them, but all our officers would be far happier if they did not need to use these measures.

"Fireworks are great fun used in the right way."