Fireworks cannot be used between 2300 and 0700 GMT

Forces have so far received half the number of complaints from members of the public as they did in 2003.

Legislation has come into force this year outlawing the use of fireworks between 2300 and 0700.

A 34-year-old man from Hawick is believed to be the first person north of the border to be charged with breaking the new law.

Police forces stressed that the fireworks season was not yet over and 5 November could be the busiest night of the fireworks season.

Fife deputy chief constable David Mellor said: "Over the last two years we've had over 5,000 calls relating to fireworks and bonfires, this year, so far, we're looking at a 50% reduction.

Letting off fireworks after 11pm is anti-social behaviour and affects the lives of those living nearby Police spokesman

"But I would say it's early days yet. We've got Bonfire Night to come when typically we get the most calls," said Mr Mellor, who is secretary of the General Policing Standing Committee of the Association of Chief Police Officers in Scotland (Acpos).

A Hawick man has been accused of setting off fireworks in the Silverbuthall area of the town at 0200 GMT.

A spokesman for Lothian and Borders Police said the case was a reminder of the new legislation.

"Letting off fireworks after 11pm is anti-social behaviour and affects the lives of those living nearby," he said.

Tougher action

"We as a force are clamping down on these kind of incidents, especially at this time of the year with the run-up to bonfire night.

"We now have these new powers and will be enforcing them."

The legislation also makes it illegal for under-18s to buy fireworks or to have them in a public place.

Animal welfare organisation, the SSPCA, has called for even tougher action on fireworks, which it said could terrify children, elderly people and animals.

Spokeswoman Leonora Merry said: "The current legislation says that the noise limits should be 120 decibels for fireworks use.