BONFIRE night is just a week away and the safety of people using fireworks has been pushed to the forefront.

The death of a 13-year-old boy in Burnley earlier this year was the first since 1996 and came as a firework exploded in his face when he went back to find out why it had not gone off.

Safety charity RoSPA says safety guidelines need to be reiterated even more forcefully this year, particularly as the popularity of fireworks seems to be on the increase.

The Millennium is one reason for that, fireworks were a central feature of the celebrations. Safe storage is increasingly becoming an issue as, instead of being a November 5 treat, they form part of all sorts of events throughout the year.

RoSPA product safety advisor David Jenkins said he was becoming "seriously concerned" about reports of misuse of fireworks and urged parents and shopkeepers to pay attention to the issue.

Although there was an eight per cent fall in injuries last year, to 831, more than one in four was due to hooliganism.

"Shopkeepers must be sure they are not selling to anyone under 18, and adults must not pass fireworks on to children," he said. "If they do, and someone is hurt, they will be responsible and have it on their conscience for the rest of their lives. Shopkeepers also face fines of up to £5,000 and jail sentences."

Another concern relates to bonfires, particularly if it is wet and people are tempted to use petrol, paraffin or meths to get them started.

"People have been badly burned and have even died following explosions when using accelerants like these in the past," said Mr Jenkins.

The charity's main message is to attend an organised display where possible and various events have been organised in the local area. One notable omission is the display at the Three Counties Showground, which is missing this year, although the society has indicated it will try and stage it next year.

Events taking place include:

n Bromyard: The 93 Club, made up of ex-Round Tablers who have gone beyond the age limit for the main organisation, puts on the event, which is a long standing feature of the local calendar. This year it is on Saturday, November 4, with the bonfire being lit around 6.30pm and fireworks at 7pm. Admission to the display, on the Rifle Club grounds, Broad Bridge Road, Bromyard, is £2 for adults, £1 for children or £5 for a family ticket. Any proceeds will be distributed to local charities.

Chairman Mike Bishop said the sole aim was not to make money, but provide a local event: "We want to put it on for the town, it's as simple as that, so come along and enjoy yourself."

n Cradley: The village event is organised in aid of church funds and will be held on Sunday, November 5, at Jubilee Field. Gates open at 5pm and the fire will be lit at 5.30pm, fireworks follow at 6.30pm. Admission is £2 for adults, £1 for children and they are available in advance from Cradley Post Office.

n Worcester: Worcester Round Table have organised the event at Pitchcroft on Saturday, November 4, which is likely to attract thousands of spectators. Gates open at 6.30pm with a torchlit parade at 7.30pm followed by the lighting of the bonfire and then fireworks. Admission is £3 for adults, £2 for children and a family ticket costs £10. Proceeds will go to a local charity to be announced. There will also be a fun fair.

n Upton Marina: Saturday, November 4, bonfire, fireworks and barbecue. Bonfire lit at 6pm, fireworks 6.45pm. Tickets £2.50 adults, £1 children, available on the gate.

n Colwall: The fireworks display takes place on Friday, November 3 at Oddfellows in Colwall. The event begins at 6.30pm and the firelighting begins at 7pm. There is no admission charge but there will be a raffle and refreshments. On Saturday, November 4, there is a bonfire bonanza organised by the Friends of Colwall C of E Primary School. Gates open at 6pm with the bonfire lighting at 6.15pm.

n Ledbury: The Round Table is organising Ledbury's event in aid of local charities. It is at Ledbury Park on Friday, November 3, at 6.30pm. Tickets are £4 or £10 for a family ticket and are available in advance from Ledbury Tourist Information Centre.