Residents across Cumbria are being urged to “think twice” about holding a firework display this year.

Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service is encouraging Cumbrian residents to think carefully before using fireworks this year, as November 5 fast approaches.

The fire service is asking that residents plan and prepare as much as possible, if anyone does choose to hold a private fireworks display.

It is being stressed that all gatherings in Cumbria, for a fireworks display or for any other reason, must be held in line with the current Covid-19 rules, which are different in certain parts of Cumbria.

While some of our readers liked the idea of fireworks, the overwhelming majority felt that they were too easily available and caused many problems for pet owners. Some people called for them to be banned.

Mandy Mcleod said: "They have been going off for weeks now. A group of teenagers were walking in street holding lit fireworks.

"They should be sold the day before and have stricter rules, they are after all an explosive. Hate this time of year, two very scared dogs ."

Tim Patterson said: "Ban them. Should only be allowed at organised public displays. You're essentially selling bombs to anyone who fancies and saying they can't be sold to under 18s is pointless as there's plenty of feckless parents who let their kids at them."