Anyone who uses fireworks to put lives in danger as Bonfire Night approaches will face “robust action,” officials have warned.

The message has been issued after emergency crews had missiles thrown at them in the run-up to November 5 last year.

Ash Denham, minister for community safety, has urged people across the local area to enjoy the seasonal celebrations safely and responsibly – or face the consequences.

It follows a number of incidents last year where police officers and crews from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) were injured by fireworks hurled at them.

Ms Denham said: “The safety of the public is paramount and we need to ensure a selfish minority do not spoil the celebrations for others.

“The use of fireworks as a means of inflicting injury on individuals, including members of our emergency services, is completely unacceptable and illegal. Robust action will be taken against anyone who puts lives at risk.

“I would urge members of the public to report any criminal or anti-social behaviour to Police Scotland or their local council.”

The Scottish Government has been working with Police Scotland and the SFRS in a bid to avoid the type of attacks faced by mercy crews last November.

Assistant Chief Constable Paul Anderson, of Police Scotland, said: “A small group of individuals were responsible for localised incidents of disorder, which included the targeting of emergency services personnel. Such behaviour is unacceptable.

“To assist our divisions, a range of specialist resources will be at their disposal to deal with any incidents which arise and officers are continuing to liaise with relevant partners.”