THE MP for Inverclyde is disappointed that the council has not been able to take advantage of a new clampdown on fireworks in time for this year's Bonfire Night.

SNP man Ronnie Cowan, who has campaigned for several years against the anti-social behaviour which often blights the days around November 5, backed tough new Holyrood laws allowing local authorities to designate specific areas as firework-free.

New legislation gives police additional powers to stop and search those suspected of being involved in dangerous behaviour.

But Inverclyde Council says they came into force too late to be implemented this year.

Inverclyde has experienced problems with the misuse of fireworks over the years and an illegal bonfire and display in Larkfield back in 2020 infamously descended into a mass riot.

There are also fears that the absence of an organised local authority event this year, due to cuts, could spark problems for the emergency services.

Mr Cowan is now calling on local people to help the emergency services head of Bonfire Night and also urging local officials to ensure that they can use their new powers in 12 months time.

Greenock Telegraph:

He said: "It is a shame that the Scottish Government legislation has apparently come too late for Inverclyde Council to act on this year.

"So I will expect to see some wards where we have experienced problems designated in time for next year.

"But meantime, police are deploying additional resources and they have given me a briefing on their approach, Operation Moonbeam, which I appreciate.

"The best way to help the police and the other emergency services is to obey the law, and inform the police if there is evidence of illegal bonfires being prepared.

"We have had unacceptable incidents of fireworks being thrown at police and firefighters and that is on top of fireworks being thrown about on our streets. There has also been criminal damage caused in our communities."

Mr Cowan says he wants to see responsible and considerate behaviour over the weekend and has warned that those indulging in criminal and dangerous acts will face the full force of the law.

The SNP man is also calling for UK Government action to tackle anti-social behaviour associated with fireworks and bonfires.

He said: "People should be in no doubt that if they are caught indulging in such behaviour they will be arrested and charged.

"Fireworks are great at an organised and safe display. That is where people can enjoy themselves.

"But there is nothing enjoyable if you are a pensioner and you feel you can't take your dog out for a walk because of what's going on in the street or round the corner.

"Many constituents have raised these issues with me and some have told me that they feel trapped in their homes.

"That's why things need to change, and why they will be changing."