POLICE in West Craven are stepping up their campaign to ensure this year's bonfire night goes off without a hitch after a phone kiosk in Barnoldswick was damaged by fireworks.

A firework was stuffed through a hole in the window of an old- style British Telecom phone box near to the Fosters Arms, on Gisburn Road, at around 6pm on Tuesday.

It exploded in the phone box causing £200 worth of damage.

Speaking to the Herald this week, Sgt Chris Saville, of Barnoldswick police said: "If we come across anyone who is committing firework offences we will treat them very seriously."

He stressed that fireworks could be dangerous in the wrong hands and past incidents had caused grave injuries.

Meanwhile, Earby's bonfire and firework celebrations have been cancelled this year.

Earby Parish Council chairman Chris Tennant said they had been forced to abandon the event "due to circumstances beyond our control".

"We would like to apologise to the residents of Earby for having to make this announcement about what has been in the past, a very popular and successful event, and will hopefully be able to rectify the matter for next year's festivities," said Mr Tennant.

"Along with members of the public, all members of the parish council have been badly let down by someone outside that body. Legal advice, which has been taken in this matter, is being pursued."