Police and fire chiefs are backing a campaign calling for a change in firework laws.

Award-winning fire-safety campaigner Elizabeth Hellmich, of Heaton, is spearheading attempts to revamp firework laws which date from 1760.

Mrs Hellmich, who won a national Neighbourhood Watch award for her efforts, said: "I've been trying for a few years now to get these laws changed - to no effect.

"But we are still collecting names for a petition to send to Parliament and push for a hearing. Something needs to be done to stop children getting hold of potentially lethal fireworks."

Chief Superintendent Phil Read, divisional commander of Bradford North Police, said any campaign to restrict the sale of fireworks and prevent misuse had to be supported. He said: "Throughout the year the police receive regular complaints across the district from people suffering at the hands of people who misuse fireworks.

"The law currently allows what are effectively high explosives to easily get into the hands of people who will readily misuse them."

Divisional officer Brian Robson, of Bradford Fire Service community safety department, said he hoped the poster designed by Clayton Primary pupil Jessica Foulds, featured in Thursday's Telegraph & Argus, would focus minds on the dangers of fireworks.

"People would not give their children a bottle of poison or a hot kettle but they are prepared to sell or pass on a firework which can cause serious injury," he said.

Bradford South Labour MP Gerry Sutcliffe is trying to secure a Parliamentary hearing on changing the laws. He said: "While we do not want to spoil people's enjoyment, fireworks should be organised and run by people with experience