RESIDENTS are being urged to use a telephone hotline to report bonfire-builders.

Cleveland Fire Brigade is working with borough councils to dismantle illegal bonfires, which cost about £35,000 to put out last year.

Firefighters were called to 310 illegal bonfires across Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Redcar and Cleveland and Stockton last year.

George Crooks, of the Arson Task Force said: "We are targeting the removal of illegal bonfires with help from partners such as community wardens, the police and members of the public.

"Trading standards officers will highlight the problem of the sale of illegal fireworks.

"No-one wants to spoil bonfire night fun for youngsters, but the community should be aware of the dangers and cost associated with lighting bonfires illegally, that is any fire on public ground not authorised by the local authority."

A team has been organised by Middlesbrough Council to dismantle bonfires.

The council has also asked shops to ban sales of fireworks until just before November 5.

Councillor Barry Coppinger, of Middlesbrough Council, said: "Bonfires are a drain on firefighters' time and resources and can divert them from lifesaving work."

The hotline numbers are (01642) 726001 for Middlesbrough, (01642) 618946 for Stockton, (01429) 523333 for Hartlepool and 0800 7311675 for Redcar and Cleveland.