Darlington MP Alan Milburn has written to police in the town after receiving complaints from people about fireworks being let off near their homes.

The Health Secretary has received various complaints about fireworks being used illegally in residential streets.

He said: "Residents are quite rightly concerned about fireworks being let off in public places, particularly near roads, in the run up to November 5.

"I'm not talking about responsibly organised parties at people's homes, but the dangerous and illegal practice of setting off fireworks in the street."

Mr Milburn's concerns were voiced as the Department of Trade and Industry launched its national firework safety campaign.

The campaign targets young people and children and makes it clear that it is an offence to let fireworks off in a public place and anyone caught could be fined.

A public place is defined as anywhere other than your own garden and includes parks and school grounds.

Following Mr Milburn's letter, Darlington police Chief Superintendent Michael Banks said: "The police are concerned to maintain street safety in Darlington and people who break the law with fireworks will face the consequences."

To help young people in Darlington understand the dangers of fireworks, a series of school talks have been organised.

More than 6,500 youngsters from across Darlington are being visited by people dressed as a space man and Guy Fawkes in a bid to keep everyone safe on Bonfire Night.

The talks have been organised by Darlington Borough Council and Century Radio, which are staging The Space Oddity themed firework display in the town's South Park on Saturday.

Children can ask the characters questions about firework safety and they are all being given child-friendly advice leaflets.

Councillor Dorothy Long said: "The dangers of firework, especially to young children, can not be stressed enough.

"With the help of these talks and by staging an organised fireworks display, we hope to reduce the numbers of people hurt in fireworks-related accidents each year."

The South Park display starts at 6pm with the Century FM Roadshow.

The bonfire will be lit at 7pm and the fireworks will start at 7.30pm.

There will be collection in aid of the South Park Restoration Fund on the night.