The annual late-night explosions between October and the new year have got the local residents' blood boiling because they feel the noise levels are disturbing their children's sleep and shattering their pets' nerves.

Frustrated residents have rallied to join the Ban the Bangers campaign and want to see businesses hold back the sale of fireworks until a couple of days before November and removing them from the shelves straight after bonfire night.

"It's not firework night any more, it's firework month. It's a breach of peace and it's enough to make me sell up and leave," said Norma Montague, who is involved with the campaign.

"Life is not just about fun. Fun is fine but it should not be held at the expense of other people and animals."

The petition was started last year by Ban the Bangers campaigners and it has since collected more than 750 signatures.

Mrs Montague has already sent letters to Chichester MP Andrew Tyrie and to the Chief Inspector of Sussex Police, asking them to help with the fireworks 'problem'.

Selsey councillor John Connor said: "The Selsey councillors are completely at one on this. We have got together to consider what we can do. The problem is the law is there but it's just so easy to get around it. Teenagers are getting hold offireworks which greatly exceed the normal decibel levels.

"We are trying to find a way to approach businesses to get them to think about the problems of fireworks."

During the fireworks season Sussex Police will be carrying out a joint agency patrol with Chichester District Council and West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service throughout bonfire night and Halloween.

Neighbourhood specialist inspector Chris Woollerton said: "The objective is education and guidance for the safe and lawful use of fireworks as well as promoting responsible behaviour with regards to 'trick or treating'."

To contact Ban the Bangers, click here to send an email.




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