A SHOPKEEPER campaigning for tougher laws on fireworks has received a boost to her campaign.

Pearl Hall, who launched her bid after a terrifying incident in her own shop, has been invited to tell senior civil servants why she wants a ban on the sale of fireworks.

Mrs Hall, who runs the Open All Hours shop, in South Bank, Middlesbrough, will join campaigners from Yorkshire and Somerset at Parliament on April 10. "We have been asked to go to Portcullis House to explain why we want a change in the law," she said. "We are asking for a total ban on local fireworks selling. The campaign is going on and it's going to gather momentum."

Mrs Hall started her campaign last October after a youth lit a firecracker in her shop, frightening her and her daughter Elizabeth and destroying stock.

"It's not right when people are walking down the street and feel afraid," she said. "These youths are just doing what they like with these fireworks long before November 5.

"I've had very little support from local MPs so perhaps they will come and listen to what we have to say next month. But I have received huge support from The Northern Echo readers. If anyone wants to come with me to London I would be delighted."

Anyone interested can contact Mrs Hall on (01642) 458513.