Exploding firework damages shop

The firework remnants in the shop are being examined

A shop in Devon has been severely damaged after an exploding firework was thrown into it.

Police said no-one was hurt, although the shop in Burnthouse Lane, Exeter, was open for business when the incident happened at about 2130 BST on Tuesday. The device has been described as a "firework bomb", which explodes into smaller fireworks after being lit.

The blast dislodged and damaged metal roof panels, cracked the main shop window and damaged an interior wall.

Forensic tests

Police said a man wearing a grey hooded top was seen throwing an object into the shop before running off into a nearby housing estate.

There were four members of staff in the shop's rear kitchen area when the firework was thrown. The shop was cordoned off while police and the Devon Fire and Rescue Service carried out a forensic examination on the remnants of the firework.

Officers have appealed for anyone with information to contact them.