A COUNCIL is promising to make Guy Fawkes Night a damp squib for people who start bonfires on its land.

Sunderland City Council has outlawed unofficial fires on open spaces and council house gardens.

Officers who see bonfires being built will order that they be taken down. And tenants who do light bonfires without permission could be charged with causing damage.

Ian Porter, acting business unit manager in housing, said: "I am not trying to take the fun out of bonfire night. I simply want residents to act in a safe and responsible manner.

"Permission will not be given for unauthorised bonfires on housing land and action will be taken against anyone found to be responsible for damage caused to council property as a result of an unofficial bonfire.

"My advice to all residents would be to attend an organised display.'