YOBS who misuse fireworks could face an expensive night out, under new laws that allow police to give them a fixed penalty ticket.

North Yorkshire Police officers have been issued special parking-style on-the-spot fine books to help them tackle firework-related misbehaviour.

Under-18s caught with fireworks on the streets, anyone found throwing fireworks or those who set them off after 11pm could now face an £80 fine.

That sum increases to £120 if offenders refuse to pay the initial fine.

Those found with powerful display fireworks could also face a fine.

Senior officers hope the move, made possible under new antisocial behaviour laws, will free up officers from form filing and other paperwork.

Last year, York was hit by a wave of firework-related hooliganism which left phone boxes and litter bins smashed by blasts.

Residents also suffered night after night of noise and disruption.

Assistant Chief Constable David Collins said: "We have the powers if we need them, but all our officers would be far happier if they did not need to use these measures.

"Fireworks are great fun used in the right way, but every year they take a toll of pain, fear, disturbance and even death - and all because an irresponsible minority use fireworks the wrong way."

The offences covered, under the Fireworks Regulations 2004 Act, are:

Throwing fireworks in a public place

Breaching the fireworks curfew (11pm to 7am)

Possession of powerful display fireworks

Under-18s holding "adult" fireworks (anything except sparklers and party poppers).

Officers warn that under-16s can still be dealt with under old laws which allow police to arrest them for serious firework misbehaviour.

Mr Collins said: "No one will be more pleased than me if North Yorkshire Police get through Mischief Night and Bonfire Night without having to issue a single £80 fine."

Updated: 10:12 Friday, October 29, 2004