PRIVATE sales of fireworks must be banned to protect pets, wildlife and public safety, the Scottish Greens said today. 

The call for a Scottish ban comes as a 1,069,000 signature petition was handed by campaigner Julie Doorne to Downing Street demanding similar measures across Britain.

Green MSP Maggie Chapman said: “Firework displays are enjoyed by thousands of people across Scotland for a variety of cultural celebrations, and I think it’s important that organised displays are protected for communities to enjoy.”

But she warned: “In recent years we have seen the period from mid-October to Hogmanay become a dangerous time for families with pets and others living in constant fear of extreme distress from fireworks. 

“We all know that fireworks have adverse effects on our wildlife and family pets, yet every year we are seeing them being set off in residential communities all over our country.

“I don’t believe that we would think handing individuals explosive devices was at all appropriate in any other situation.”