POLICE have threatened to issue on-the-spot fines of �80 to anyone guilty of anti-social behaviour in and around bonfire night.

Officers have warned they will not tolerate the misuse of fireworks as they prepare to carry out extra patrols across Cambridgeshire between now and Saturday.

The aim of the patrols will be to enforce laws that govern the use of fireworks and to reassure residents.

Sgt Ruth Sheehan said: “We want everyone to enjoy themselves this bonfire night but it is important people use fireworks responsibly for the safety of themselves and others.”

Police will also have the power to stop and search anyone they think may be in unlawful possession of fireworks.

Sgt Sheehan also said: “We are working with Trading Standards to ensure that all those selling fireworks are licensed to do so and are not acting irresponsibly by allowing anyone under the age of 18 to purchase them.”

Martin Boome, Cambridgeshire Police’s arson liaison officer, said: “Unfortunately at this time of the year there are some people who deliberately set off fireworks and start bonfires for malicious purposes.

“We would ask them to think carefully about the consequences of their actions and how they would feel if one of their friends were killed or seriously hurt.”