Police chief brands firework misuse in Sheffield as 'lunacy' as he vows to catch those responsible

Chief Constable Stephen Watson has urged parents to make sure children do not have access to fireworks, following ‘foolish’ behaviour on Bonfire night.

He said that the force was this year not as busy as usual on November 5, but there were isolated areas where people ‘engaged in really, really foolish behaviour’, and misused ‘large and potentially very dangerous fireworks’.

The force said large crowds of young people were using fireworks in an anti-social manner across Darnall, Tinsley, Fir Vale and Firth Park.

In one incident, a motorist threw fireworks out of his car at people waiting at a bus stop in Wisewood.

A terrified mum also called police after a firework aimed at a bus on Stainforth Road, Darnall, narrowly missed her car, containing her young daughter.

Chf Con Watson told the Police and Crime Commissioners public accountability board, the incidents will be investigated and perpetrators charged.

He added: "This is, for want of a better word, lunacy. [Fireworks] have the potential to kill.

"We have taken steps to increase presence and bring people into custody.

"I would urge parents to make sure where your children are and make sure they don't have access to fireworks.

"When they have access to fireworks they really shouldn't have, you should be taking to steps to prevent [this]."

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.