BOLTON trading standards officials have issued a warning for people to be on the lookout for imported fireworks which could explode if not handled properly.

Red Lion Fireworks have been imported to Liverpool from China and contain an illegal mix of two explosives.

Andrew Fisher, Principal Trading Standards Officer at Bolton Council, said some of the fireworks had turned up in both south and north Manchester.

People who have bought the fireworks are advised to put them into a bucket of water for 24 hours and then phone Greater Manchester Fire Service firework advice line on (0161) 736 5866. The advice line will offer information on how people can safely dispose of the fireworks.

Trading standards officers are also appealing for people who have bought "Starbuster" fireworks to contact them.

Some of the mortar-shell like fireworks do not have a safety cap on the fuse which could lead to the firework being lit accidentally.

Contact the Trading Standards Office at Bolton Council on 522311, ext 4342.

Politicians and bosses from the firework industry in this country are calling for a return to strict import controls following the incident.

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