There are calls for a complete ban on private firework use

A fireworks curfew with penalties up to a �5,000 fine and six months' jail comes into effect on Saturday.

Animal Aid's Sue Vidamour says it is time for firework use to be restricted with stronger laws than the UK's.

In January, two government committees, Home Affairs and the Board of Industry, were asked to work together to find a solution for their misuse.

Complete ban

The UK law bans all fireworks between 2300 and 0700, except on occasions such as New Year's Eve, the Chinese New Year, the Hindu festival of Diwali and 5 November.

The measures also make it illegal for anyone under 18 to carry fireworks in public places and shops cannot sell fireworks louder than 120 decibels under the new laws.

Sue Vidamour said that while the law was a good start it does not go far enough.

She said she would like to see an earlier end to public displays and possibly a complete ban on the private use of fireworks. She says that is the only way to prevent them falling into the hands of people who will misuse them.

She has called on Guernsey politicians to listen to public opinion and act to end the abuse of fireworks.

Currently, fireworks brought into the island from France or other countries are illegal and are subject to seizure and destruction. If owners are prosecuted, they face a fine of up to �1,400.