A TOWN'S MP is urging shopkeepers not to sell fireworks to children after an increase in complaints about youngsters playing with them.

Alan Milburn, MP for Darlington, said many residents had written to him saying their lives were being made a misery by irresponsible youths using fireworks in the run-up to November 5.

He is asking all retailers to abide by the law and ensure fireworks were only sold to people aged 16 or over.

Mr Milburn said he had received a letter from a disabled widow, begging him to help stop the noise and harassment in her street, in the Park East ward.

"This elderly woman is very distressed," he said.

"She tells me the noise of the fireworks is accompanied by children banging on her door. I urge the shop owners who sell these things to children to stop and just think what these fireworks will probably be used for."

Mr Milburn said he welcomed penalties being introduced by the Government for retailers who break the law.

"My constituents tell me that the abuse of fireworks can ruin their lives at this time of year," he said.

A council spokeswoman said community wardens had stepped up patrols in areas where fireworks misuse was a problem, such as parks.

A letter has also been sent to every registered retailer, of which there are about 50 in the borough, asking them not to sell fireworks until two weeks before Bonfire Night.

Trading standards officers have visited every premises to explain the law and distribute leaflets on fireworks safety.

Acting Inspector Barrie Stainthorpe, of Darlington police, said there had been an increase in complaints about fireworks misuse.