Fine warning for night fireworks

Last year 10 people were handed on-the-spot fines

People who let off fireworks after 2300 GMT may face an £80 fine, a north London council has warned.

Enfield Council has launched a poster campaign - with the slogan, "It's not rocket science" - to warn people about the penalty which applies all year.

This year one person has already been fined for breaking the curfew. Those involved in anti-social behaviour will also be penalised, officials said.

The curfew will be extended until midnight on 5 November.

Officers have asked local residents to alert the council's mobile fireworks patrol if they see people flouting the order.

Enjoy 'sensibly'

Last year 10 people were handed on-the-spot fines while the council's hotline received 168 complaints.

The council has also extended its patrol, which starts as early as 0900GMT and lasts until 0200GMT on weekends.

Councillor Terry Neville said: "The message is simple - enjoy yourself this fireworks season but don't spoil the night for others by letting off fireworks after the curfew or misuse them - otherwise you will find yourself with an £80 fine to pay."

Ch Insp Simon Prince said: "We are not trying to curtail the enjoyment of fireworks, but we want people to take pleasure in them sensibly and responsibly and not to the detriment of others."

The midnight extended curfew will be applied on New Year's Eve, Diwali and the Chinese New Year.