Police to crack down on firework nuisance

Officers today announced that extra police patrols will be out in force on the streets of the countyto deal "firmly" with those who cause a nuisance over Hallowe'en, Mischief and Bonfire nights.

Regular officers, special Constables and Police Community Support Officers will run special high-visibility patrols in every town in the county.

Their job will be to act firmly and decisively to stop antisocial behaviour by individuals or groups, and to reassure the law-abiding majority of residents by their presence.

They will patrol on foot and in vehicles, and will be supported by Road Policing Group officers checking the highways for troublemakers.

"We all know the difference between a prank and an act of vandalism," said Deputy Chief Constable Roger Baker.

"We all know the difference between a good-natured trick or treat and an ugly act of intimidation. We all know the difference between enjoying the magic of fireworks and using them as a weapon to destroy property or endanger life.

"The tragedy is that there is a tiny minority who know the difference between right and wrong but don't care. Quite simply, our job is to get out there and deal with that minority."

The extra officers will supplement regular patrols.

Meanwhile, fireworks were once again used to damage a telephone box in York.

Youngsters were being blamed for the attack outside The Magpie pub in Penleys Grove Street at 8.40pm yesterday.

A North Yorkshire Police spokesman said the telephone receiver was blown up by a firework, although the cubicle remained intact.

Youngsters were also seen to put fireworks underneath a nearby car. Investigations are ongoing.

Teenagers used fireworks to terrorise two Ryedale towns.

In Malton and Norton three letter boxes were blown up, bins and bus shelters set ablaze, and frightened residents complained to the police about youths throwing fireworks in the street.

Updated: 14:17 Wednesday, October 29, 2003