A FED-up councillor is calling for a ban on the sale of fireworks in a desperate bid to restore peace and quiet.

Cllr Bill Brandwood believes late-night bangs, screeches and explosions are making people's lives a misery.

And he said only an all-out ban on the sale of fireworks to the general public will curb the anti-social behaviour.

The Bournemouth councillor, who represents Queens Park, said the new legislation to crack down on firework nuisance had not resulted in any significant improvement.

He said: "Residents don't want this going on causing nuisance and distress to animals and humans alike.

"The letting-off of fireworks commences without warning from October to mid-January and many people will not venture out.

"Animals have to be contained most evenings and it is unreasonable that owners should have to sedate their animals."

He added: "If the custom didn't already exist, I would think it incredible that the distribution of explosives to the population would be supported by government."

He is urging the town's two MPs to press for a total ban on the sale of fireworks to anyone except organisers of displays and has asked all councillors to support him.

Cllr Ron Whittaker, who represents Throop and Muscliff, has already voiced his agreement and said premature firework displays were proving "hellish" for residents and their pets.

He said: "I know a lot of youngsters might be upset but at the end of the day it is better and safer to have organised events and we have to consider the vulnerable, the elderly, pets and wild creatures.

"Until the government tackles the issue we are going to have complaints every year."

But Annette Brooke, MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole, said the legislation needed more time to make an impact.

"I understand why people are calling for a ban but I think it would be very sad if we got to that point," she said.

"I do believe that, after this busy firework period, we need a review of how the regulations have worked across the country."

Tobias Ellwood, MP for Bournemouth East, said: "I agree with Cllr Brandwood's sentiments entirely.

"I get an awful lot of residents contact me about this issue. I'm just concerned about how a ban would work."

First published: November 4, 2005