Extra patrols will be carried out on the streets of north Cumbria, in a bid to stamp out anti-social behaviour this Bonfire Night.

Operation Roman Candle is a joint operation between Cumbria Police, Carlisle City Council, housing association Riverside, Trading Standards and Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service.

It runs every year, this year launching on October 21 until November 11, and works to reduce anti-social use of fireworks and illegal bonfires.

Sergeant Chris Blain said: “We are increasing our patrols across Carlisle, Brampton, and Eden, in order to tackle any anti-social complaints during this season.

"We are urging everyone to enjoy this time safely and be careful around bonfires and fireworks. We will be taking positive action against those who misuse fireworks, and I would encourage people to visit professional displays such as the Carlisle Fireshow.”

Gillian Brough, Riverside's neighbourhood manager, said: “Riverside are pleased to be a part of operation Roman Candle and will be supporting our partners by carrying out estate inspections to identify fly tipping that could be used to build bonfires.

"We would encourage all our customers to attend an organised bonfire and wish everyone a happy and safe bonfire night."

Riverside offers a 24-hour service, in conjunction with ISS Facility Services – Landscaping, to help keep the community safer during bonfire period. It works with the council and emergency services to react, remove and reinstate areas where a bonfire may cause harm, damage the environment or property.

Carlisle Councillor Lee Sherriff, portfolio holder for communities, health and wellbeing, added: “The best way to have fun and stay safe on Bonfire Night is to attend an official, organised bonfire."

* Police in Carlisle are reminding people about the law surrounding the sale of fireworks, following concerns that under-18s in the city have been spotted with fireworks.

Police are also aware that fireworks are being sold on social media sites. It is illegal to sell fireworks or sparklers unless you are licenced and registered to do so.

PC Lori Tallantire said: “We have been made aware of people selling fireworks in Carlisle over social media sites such as Facebook. To sell fireworks you must have a licence and be registered.

“Illegal firework trading has a dangerous knock-on effect as some may sell to under-18s.”

Anyone with information on illegal firework trading is asked to contact police on 101.