FIREWORKS have been shot at a Southampton tower block, police have said.

Officers were called to Millbrook Towers after the pyrotechnics were aimed at the 240ft block home to 144 families in a "reckless manner".

No one was injured in the incident earlier this month - but police are bracing themselves for any similar bad behaviour over Halloween.

Police said they have plans in place to deal with any rise in anti-social behaviour and nuisance during Halloween and Bonfire night.

Last year, the Millbrook community was rocked when youths caused havoc during late-night Halloween antics.

A gang of youths flipped cars and smashed windows, and front doors of the One Stop store in Cumbrian Way were also vandalised.

A hedgehog was also cruelly tortured in Warren Crescent on the same night.

The defenceless animal was left with multiple fractures and internal injuries after four teenagers kicked it.

A police spokesperson said: "We appreciate that the majority of people in the community enjoy these events sensibly, however there are a small minority who choose to behave in an unacceptable or dangerous manner.

"Misusing fireworks can be incredibly dangerous and lead to serious injury. The law states you must not set off or throw fireworks (including sparklers) in the street or other public places.

"You must not set off fireworks between 11pm and 7am."

Fireworks can be lit until midnight on Bonfire Night, and until 1am on New Year's Eve, Diwali and Chinese New Year.

The pyrotechnics cannot be stored for more than 14 days, and the public cannot possess display-style fireworks. 

Councillor Matt Renyard, cabinet member for Safer City, said: “Southampton City Council and Hampshire Constabulary have worked together with partners to coordinate a programme of activity, which has included communications to parents via schools about the importance of ensuring their children experience Halloween safely and legally. 

“A number of activities will be running throughout (Halloween), provided by local partner agencies and community groups, supported by Safer Streets funding from the Home Office. 

"Residents will also notice a higher police presence in the area this year which should offer assurance, and enable children and families to enjoy Halloween safely.”

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