BIG supermarket bosses in Inverclyde have snubbed pleas to follow the lead of rival firms not to sell fireworks to the public.

The MP Ronnie Cowan had called for all large high street chains to follow the example of operators such as Sainsbury's, who reaffirmed their commitment to not selling fireworks last month.

But when the Tele asked Tesco if they would be doing likewise, they instead highlighted their of fireworks.

When Mr Cowan's comments were put to Tesco, the supermarket pointed out the variety of low noise fireworks they have available to customers.

But MP Mr Cowan says the misuse of fireworks is one of the biggest issues raised by his constituents, many of whom are pet owners.

He asked Inverclyde Council last month to take steps to limit the number of 'pop-up' stores springing up to sell pyrotechnics, citing concerns about anti-social behaviour and safety.

A total of 11 retailers applied for temporary pop-up licences locally to sell fireworks right up to November 10.

The SNP man has written to both Morrisons and Tesco to request they adopt the same policy to fireworks as Sainsbury's and the Co-op.

Morrison's did not respond to the Tele when they were contacted for comment on Mr Cowan's request.

The MP said: "Stores such as Sainsbury's and the Co-op are showing that there is no need for the big supermarket chains to stock and sell fireworks.

"These chains are sending a clear message to the public and the other big supermarkets that the selling of fireworks is far from being essential or even desirable.

"The misuse of fireworks can be a horrible experience for people, and there are clear safety implications.

"Fireworks going off at random times of the day and night is dangerous and causes distress.

"I believe that tighter controls on the storage and use of fireworks are long overdue."