HOOLIGANS in west and north Wiltshire who set off fireworks during the night could face fines of up to £5,000 or six months in jail from the autumn.

Consumer Minister Gerry Sutcliffe unveiled new proposals to crackdown on the anti-social use of fireworks in time for this year's Guy Fawkes' celebrations.

Nationally the use of fireworks is to be banned between 11pm and 7am, except on New Year's Eve, November 5, Diwali night and Chinese New Year, when fireworks will be allowed until 2am.

Restrictions on the size and sale of fireworks will come into force, with a new licensing system for retailers starting in January 2005 and a noise limit of 120 decibels for category three fireworks the largest type available to the public.

Wiltshire Constabulary, Wiltshire Trading Standards, district councils and HM Customs and Excise will be responsible for enforcing the new regulations locally.

Mr Sutcliffe said: "For the majority fireworks can be fun but when they get into the hands of irresponsible hooligans they cause a real disturbance in local communities."

The Home Office is looking at the enforcement powers of police in relation to firework offences, with a consultation process until July.