POLICE will use new powers to combat firework-throwing yobs in the run up to Guy Fawkes' night.

Officers have a raft of tough new measures available to protect the public and reduce the nuisance which is common at this time of year.

The Fireworks Regulations 2004 ban under-18s from possessing fireworks, apart from party poppers and sparklers.

It is also unlawful to set them off between 11pm and 7am, except on Bonfire Night, New Year and other authorised occasions, such as religious festivals.

Maximum noise levels come into force of 120 decibels and air bombs and other nuisance rockets are banned.

Police can also slap £80 on-the-spot fines on anyone letting fireworks off in the street.

The rules ban anyone apart from professional firework operatives from possessing the most powerful rockets.

Officers say despite the guidelines, displays can still go ahead on certain religious festivals, such as Chinese New Year, the Hindu festival of Diwali, where they are traditional.

Police are always inundated with complaints at this time of year.

Crime prevention officers Bob Walton said: "We always get calls about youths throwing fireworks, causing a danger to themselves and others. Fireworks are there to be enjoyed, not abused.

"These changes will help tackle the minority of people who use them to cause distress, fear and alarm. Officers will not hesitate to use them."

Displays

Swindon Lions Club's display starts at 6pm on Saturday at the Marlborough Road Polo Ground.

Purton and Lydiard scouts will be lighting up the sky above Lydiard Park from 5.30pm on Saturday. Entry is adults £5, children £2.

Highworth's community display is at the Elms recreation ground from 7.30pm on Friday. Entry is £4 for adults and £1 for children and senior citizens. There will also be children's rides and a barbecue.

Cricklade cricket ground at 7pm on Friday. Entry is family £8, adults £3, children and pensioners £1.50.

Judging for the best guy starts at 5.30pm at the Ghost Train in Purton on Friday. Free entry but a collection for the Purton Helping Hand.

Cross Keys, Lower Wanborough, 7.30pm on Friday. Entry is £3 adults, £2 children. Fireworks to music, plus barbecue.

Safety tips

Always keep fireworks in a sealed box or tin to protect against sparks.

Never carry fireworks in a pocket .

Only use fireworks one at a time.

Light fireworks at arms length using a specially-made safety lighter or a taper.

Stand well back from a firework, and never return to one even if it seems dead.

Supervise children at the scene.

Never throw fireworks

Keep domestic animals indoors.

Ensure children wear gloves when using sparklers.

Only buy fireworks which comply with safety standard BS 74.