Fireworks - they’re a perennially popular way to round off a celebration – and available more freely than in earlier years - but please be aware of the rules and restrictions on how fireworks can be used legally and safely.

Fireworks can be used in the UK at any time between 7am and 11pm except:

· Bonfire night: 7am to midnight

· New Year’s Eve, Diwali and Chinese New Year: 7am to 1am the following day

Fireworks fall into four categories:

· category one: ‘Throwdown fireworks’ including firecrackers, bangers and party poppers

• categories two and three: ‘Adult fireworks’ available in shops
• category four: Professional display fireworks available from specialist suppliers

According to The Fireworks Regulations 2004 and The Pyrotechnic Articles (Safety) Regulations 2015:

• anyone over 18 can buy, carry or use category one, two and three fireworks
• anyone over 16 can only buy, carry or use category one fireworks
• anyone over 12 can buy Christmas crackers
• only licensed professionals can buy, carry and use category 4 fireworks
• unless part of an organised event by licensed professionals, fireworks cannot be used on the street or in a public place
• it’s an offence to throw or set off any firework (including sparklers and category 1 fireworks) in or into any highway, street, thoroughfare or public space.