Residents are being warned to be wary of counterfeit fireworks in the lead up to Bonfire Night after illegal bangers were found in Crewe.
Bangers have been banned in the UK since 1997 but the fireworks are thought to have been imported from China and are being illegally counterfeited using the Black Cat brand, which is leading some consumers into a false sense of security.
The bangers come in small red tubes with a short fuse on top and are sold in packs of 10.
Cheshire East Council is urging people not to buy goods from the back of a van, car boot sales or unlicensed premises in a bid to stamp out this menace.
The authority is keen to ensure residents keep safe and have an enjoyable Bonfire Night and wants people to remain vigilant and ensure the fireworks they are buying are legal.
On Monday, 29th October, the Council's consumer protection and investigations team and Cheshire Police carried out 25 test purchases of fireworks at retailers across Cheshire East in an attempt to stamp out underage sales.
The authority has praised local retailers in Wilmslow, Knutsford, Sandbach, Middlewich and Crewe, which were all found to be fully compliant with the law.
And anyone who suspects someone of selling illegal or counterfeit fireworks should call Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 08454 04 05 06.
