Residents in one Blackburn neighbourhood said they are ‘scared to leave their homes’ due to the number of fireworks being let off.

The incidents have been taking place for a number of weeks off Philips Road in the Little Harwood area, residents said.

One resident said it was happening almost every night and families were ‘helpless’ to do anything about it.

“The last two weeks have been really bad with fireworks being let off through the evening.

“People are scared leaving their homes in case they get hit. People walking home from mosque don’t escape too and are targeted.

“People are being targeted and cars are being fired at. These are not small fireworks but the large ones that make a huge din.

“When people walk past they get targeted. They are terrorising the whole neighbourhood.

“The groups congregate around Philips Road and I know people on the football pitch have complained too.

“I know a couple tried to tell the perpetrators to calm down and they were targeted. There is no winning with them.”

The resident said she had spoken to the police a number of times.

“It is every night and it goes on till late and it is a huge nuisance.

“A few of us have put complaints in. But I think they there is little they can do unless they catch them in the act.”

Police in the UK can issue fixed penalty notices to those under the age of 18 caught with fireworks in a public place.

It is a criminal offence to throw or fire any firework in or into any highway, street, public space or use a firework between the hours of 11pm and 7am.

It is also an offence to light any fire or firework, without lawful authority, within 50 feet of the centre of a highway which consists of or comprises a carriageway, and as a consequence the highway is damaged.

Little Harwood and Whitebirk Councillor Mustafa Desai said: "With bonfire night approaching, one of the challenges we've always had is the irresponsible use of fireworks.

"It is important to note that It is an offence to throw or set off any firework in a street, public space or to aim at members of the public. It is also illegal to sell category two and three fireworks to anyone under the age of 18.

“Breaking these laws can result in a fine of up to £5,000, imprisonment for up to six months, or an on-the-spot fine of £90.

“I met with community policing last week and I was informed additional patrols will be scheduled during the period leading upto bonfire night to deter irresponsible use of fireworks."

Cllr Tiger Patel said he was aware of the issues.

He said: “I am aware of this.

“I have been contacted by another resident who had concerns over the use of fireworks at night.

“I have also raised this with e local police to see if we can work together.

“It is difficult this as it appears some of the people are of a young age.

“There have also been complaints of loud cars driving past.

"I don't think this is just an issue for Little Harwood and there are concerns from people living in other areas too."