UNDERCOVER trading standards officers are targeting fireworks retailers across North Yorkshire.

Working with young volunteers posing as potential customers, they are enforcing the strict "no fireworks to under-18s" law.

Traders who break the law by selling to children risk a £5,000 fine and six months imprisonment.

Stuart Pudney, head of North Yorkshire Trading Standards, said fireworks caused horrendous and usually avoidable injuries across the country each year.

"It is very worrying that last year there was a significant rise in the number of injuries from fireworks, from 831 in 1998 to 1056 - an increase of 21 per cent," he said. It is also of concern that figures show injuries to children are consistently over 50 per cent of this total each year."

Mr Pudney said a number of these injuries took place prior to Bonfire Night, with children often letting off fireworks in the street.

"I would ask all retailers to be especially vigilant to ensure that they and their employees do not sell fireworks to any person under the age of 18," he said.

Retailers are urged to.-

Ensure fireworks are securely displayed

If in doubt about a person's age, ask for photo ID

Train and support staff to make refusals

Keep a record of sales refusals.

Mr Pudney said: "Last year, through our enforcement programme, no sales of fireworks were made to young people - an extremely pleasing result," he said.

"I hope that retailers will be equally vigilant this year to help ensure the safety of children within our community."

Meanwhile, a survey of people who have used North Yorkshire Trading Standards' advice service has found that most were more than happy with the service. The survey found that 98 per cent felt they were dealt with promptly and 93 per cent found the advisors courteous or very courteous.