SPOT checks are to take place across North Yorkshire in an attempt to clamp down on sales of fireworks to youngsters.

Trading Standards officers in the county have warned retailers they will use young volunteers to make "test purchases" to ensure fireworks are not being sold to under-18s.

Officials will also be checking stocks of fireworks are safe and comply with UK regulations. They are keen to hear about any unusual fireworks from abroad on sale in local shops.

York has been plagued by fireworks-related vandalism over recent weeks, with seven telephone boxes being destroyed.

Updated: 09:50 Saturday, October 18, 2003