Police on Tyneside have warned traders about selling fireworks to children after a patrol car was attacked by youths with fireworks.

Undercover officers and volunteer youngsters are carrying out test purchases in Newcastle to find traders selling fireworks illegally.

Northumbria Police says it has seen an increase in juvenile disorder in the run-up to bonfire night on 5 November.

A 14-year-old youth was cautioned after fireworks were thrown at a patrol car in the west of the city as officers were responding to a call from residents.

Underage youngsters

A spokesman for Northumbria Police said: "We will act against anyone found selling fireworks to youngsters.

"We want to make youngsters aware of organised events rather than setting fireworks off in the streets."

The force has joined forces with trading standards officials in an effort to find rogue shopkeepers selling fireworks to underage youngsters.

Concerned residents

The spokesman added: "The lead-up to Halloween and bonfire night can see an increase in juvenile disorder with research showing a link between this and the sale of fireworks.

"Already a 14-year-old youth in the Newcastle West area command has been cautioned after fireworks were thrown at a police car called to the area by concerned residents.

"Leaflets, including the firework code, will be printed in several languages and distributed throughout the city."

In 2001, more than 1,360 people were treated at UK hospitals during the autumn fireworks season - an increase of 40% on figures for 2000.