SHOPKEEPERS who sell fireworks to youngsters are to be targeted in a campaign by consumer watchdogs in the run-up to Bonfire Night.

Most fireworks cannot legally be bought by people aged under 18, according to trading standards officials.

Under-age volunteers will be employed, as part of an undercover operation, to check out if traders are following the letter of the law.

Shop owners are also being reminded that they are allowed to sell fireworks only for a limited period before November 5.

Last year the Guardian received letters from dozens of readers who were concerned about the length of time, both before and after Bonfire Night, that people were able to buy and use bangers and rockets.

The safety message is also being hammered home, with figures showing that firework-related accidents are again on the increase.

Borough council health promotion officers have given talks on firework safety to pupils in primary and secondary schools.

A nationwide ban is set to come into force at the start of next year on the sale of air bombs, which has won the council's support.

Police, the fire brigade and Town Hall chiefs are all lending their support to the firework safety campaign.

Station officer Mick Cox, of Cheshire Fire Service, said: "We strongly recommend that people only attend organised firework displays."