Firework incident in Kirkby

We can confirm we received a report of a loud bang in Kirkby today, Sunday 5 November.

Just before 12.30pm we received a report that two men were injured following a firework that went off in a car on Brook Hey Drive.

Both men sustained serious injuries to face and hand and were taken to hospital for treatment, which are not life threatening. The vehicle, a black BMW, drove off from the scene.

Emergency services attended the incident, and following enquiries it is believed that the firework went off accidentally.

Commander for the policing operation, Chief Inspector Duncan Swan said: “Please be cautious when handling fireworks as accidents like this can happen causing serious or fatal injuries. They are not something to be messed with but should be handled in a responsible and controlled manner.

“Everyone should be aware that it is illegal for anyone under the age of 18 to possess or use fireworks in a public place.

“We urge the public to be cautious and to think again before holding a firework display at home, and instead encourage you to attend organised displays as they are controlled and safer which means less risk of people being injured or bonfires spreading out of control.”