A crackdown on firework safety is being launched across Hambleton in an effort to ensure this year's Bonfire Night goes without a hitch.

New laws to curb bad behaviour by groups of teenagers, not only on November 5 but in the run-up to the celebrations, are now in force.

Fireworks do not go on sale until Friday and safety officers are reminding store owners that it is illegal to sell them to under-18s.

"We will be using the new powers to ensure that there are few, if any, cases of anti-social behaviour caused by fireworks this year," said Sergeant Matt France, of the Hambleton Community Safety Partnership.

"But we do need the public to help us - let us know of any problems, especially in the villages.

"And we would urge parents to reinforce the dangers surrounding fireworks.

"Teenagers are the ones most likely to suffer as a result of pranks, either because they get injured or are caught breaking the law."

The new powers also make it illegal to set off fireworks between 11pm and 7am.

That curfew is extended to midnight on November 5 and to 1am on New Year's Eve, Chinese New Year and the Hindu festival of Diwali.

"Community safety officers will be working with the environmental health team to ensure the night goes off with only the right bangs," said Sgt France.

Copies of the Firework Safety Code and posters are being distributed to all schools and parish councils - and are being backed up with exhibitions at council offices.

Shops will be visited by trading standards officers to ensure that licensing and safety standards are complied with - including test purchases if sales to under-18s are suspected.

People will also be encouraged to attend organised displays rather than run their own back garden events.

l To report incidents of firework misuse, call North Yorkshire Police on 0845 6060247. To report concerns over underage sales or the safety of fireworks you have bought, contact North Yorkshire Trading Standards on 0845 3303313. For advice on organising your own event, call the council on (01609) 767098 or the fire service on (01609) 780150.