RESIDENTS who plan to celebrate Bonfire Night with a bang are being warned not to fall foul of new rules on when fireworks can be set off.

It is now illegal for the general public to launch fireworks before 6pm and after 11pm, although the curfew is extended to midnight on November 5.

Those who flout the law could face a hefty fine.

With a number of public firework displays, including one in Paisley town centre, being scrapped again this year due to the Covid pandemic, there are concerns that many local residents will organise their own celebrations.

However, Ash Denham, Minister for Community Safety, has urged people to follow the rules.

She said: “Fireworks can be hugely damaging and distressing and that is why it is now illegal for the general public to set off fireworks before 6pm and after 11pm.

“I encourage anyone who witnesses or has information about criminality relating to fireworks to report it, so that action can be taken to prevent further harm to our communities.”

For more information, visit www.firescotland.gov.uk/your-safety/fireworks-safety.aspx.