POLICE in Bromsgrove are launching a new scheme to ensure everyone's Bonfire Night goes with a bang.

They are launching Operation Ghost to crack down on anti-social behaviour over the next six weeks, to coincide with Halloween and the Bonfire Night celebrations.

Inspector Jacqueline Smith said: "This time of year can be a very frightening experience for some people and we want to ensure that everyone has a safe and happy time.

"While the majority of people enjoy the festivities, there are a small minority of people who behave in an anti-social way, frightening and even harming others. It is that action we want to put a stop to."

The police will be working alongside local firefighters and officers from Trading Standards to make sure shops selling fireworks follow the code of practise for retailers.

Traders must have a license to sell fireworks and they should only be sold from October 15 and from a few days after Bonfire Night. They can also be sold during the Christmas period for use at New Year.

Fireworks must only be displayed within a locked cabinet and should only be sold to residents over the age of 18. However, Bromsgrove police are recommending traders do not sell to people under 21.

Inspector Smith added: "Because we are visiting retailers now there is no excuse for not storing and selling fireworks in the correct way.

"We would ask that if a member of the public knows any retailers who are not selling fireworks safely that they contact either us or the Trading Standards department at Worcester."

The police will also be visiting schools to talk to students about a good code of practise for Halloween.

"Trick or treating tends to be something that children enjoy but when it comes to teenagers this is when it can start to feel intimidating for some members of the community," she concluded.