Lit fireworks were thrown into block of flats in Hucknall

Coun John Wilmott, Ashfield District Council’s cabinet member for regulatory services, is among those calling for restrictions on the early sale of fireworks, following the incident at Pinfold Flats in Annesley Road, Hucknall.

Coun Wilmott was on hand to support the residents during the incident which occurred at around 11pm.

Coun Wilmott has asked for a reassurance that this will be fully investigated and praised the fire service for their rapid response.

Coun Wilmott said: “This incident was a huge cause for concern but I am pleased to say that there was no serious damage. It could have been far worse and although some of the flats suffered from smoke damage, residents were able to return safely to their flats.

"I am appalled that anybody could just chuck fireworks into a reception area. I am asking for anybody from the local community to call the police on 101 if they have any information.”

Coun Wilmott said three fire engines, two ambulances, one police car and a police incident van attended the scene.

He said: “This latest incident was shocking and it strengthens my argument that we need tighter regulations on the sale of fireworks. Hucknall is already sounding like a battle field and Bonfire Night is more than three weeks away.

"We’ve asked Nottinghamshire County Council to carry out its usual checks on retailers selling fireworks and I would remind them that it is illegal to sell fireworks to anybody under 18.

"During the latest lockdown, households can enjoy their own displays in their gardens on November 5, but there will be no organised displays this year but the same old problems have started again.

"This incident at Pinfold Flats could have been far worse and even led to serious injury or deaths, it’s that serious. I have asked the police to increase patrols and police the misuse of fireworks in Hucknall and across the Ashfield District.”

Anyone caught causing a nuisance with fireworks will receive an £80 fine and any fireworks found on a person under 18 will be confiscated.

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