IT is a sobering thought that the majority of injuries caused by fireworks last year were to youngsters, in spite of the fact that it is illegal to sell them to those under 18.

Alcohol has been highlighted as a factor in many accidents, increasing the risk of injury and also affecting the ability of adults to supervise children properly when fireworks are being set off.

Statistics released by the Department of Trade and Industry reveal that the number of firework injuries last year have increased by 20 per cent over the previous year, with more than 600 cases.

But by taking simple precautions you can ensure that Guy Fawkes' night is an enjoyable and safe experience.

Pete Nicholls of Swindon Trading Standards (pictured) said: "People organising bonfire parties should consider limiting the availability of alcohol until all the fireworks have been set off.

"Children are at high risk of injury, so always supervise them around fireworks. It is important that when you buy fireworks you check to see if they carry the British Standard kite mark.

"Always remember to keep pets locked up while fireworks are being let off. I hope Swindon has a great and very safe bonfire night."

Where to go

SWINDON

A firework display is being staged by the town's Lions club at the Polo Ground, Marlborough Road. Gates open on Saturday at 5.30pm, entertainment from 6.30pm and fireworks from 7.15pm. Tickets are available from Nationwide Building Society, West Bromwich Mortgage Bureau and Duck Son and Pinker in the town centre. The event is supported by the Evening Advertiser. For more details contact 872132.

A firework display, bonfire and motorcycle display is being held at Lydiard Park on Saturday, November 4. The event starts at 6pm.

A bonfire party is being held at the Liden Community centre on Saturday November 4, with a special Guy competition for the children.

BROAD HINTON

The Crown Inn is holding a firework display on Sunday, November 5, at 7.30pm at High Street, Broad Hinton. There will be a children's best Guy competition and under-fives are allowed into the event free. Admission for adults is £3.

HIGHWORTH

Firework fever comes to Highworth tomorrow with the seventh annual town fireworks display. It takes place at 7.30pm on the Elms recreation ground extension off the A361 golf course entrance. There will also be a barbecue. The entrance fee is £4 for adults and £1 for children and senior citizens.

ASHTON KEYNES

The village bonfire will be held on Saturday, November 4, at Bradshire Field. There will be a prize for the best Guy. Judging will be at 4pm.

TOCKENHAM

Bonfire Night will be celebrated on the playing field on Saturday and entries for the Guy competition should be at the Village Hall by 6pm for judging at 6.30pm. The bonfire and fireworks will start at 7pm. Tickets, to include food cost £3 per adult and £1.50 for children.

WOOTTON BASSETT

The Woodshaw Entertainers are planning bonfire night celebrations for all Wootton Bassett residents at Canal Field, off Marlborough Road, opposite Templars Way, on November 4. Tickets are available from the Woodshaw Inn and the Halifax office in High Street.

MINETY

A Millennium Fireworks display is being held on Sunday, November 5 at Minety Playing Fields. The bonfire starts at 6.30pm, followed by fireworks from 7pm. The cost will be £3 for adults, and £1 for children, and refreshments and a bar will be available.