Halton gives rogue traders a rocket
● SCAMBUSTERS have warned fireworks buyers in Runcorn and Widnes to steer clear of unlicensed retailers.
A Halton Trading Standards spokesman said customers should stick to shops with licences, which means they are visited to make due their pyrotechnics meet safety standards and are stored correctly.
Buyers have advised that fireworks should have a CE mark and contain clear instructions in English.
Trading Standards officers also reiterated that it is illegal to sell category F2 and F3 fireworks to under-18s.
Residents can report suspicious sales by calling 0345 404 0506 such as transactions taking place at home addresses or via social media.
Halton Council has advised buyers to purchase their fireworks from the following licensed retailers: Aldi, Trident Retail Park, Runcorn; Aldi, Lugsdale Road, Widnes; Asda, West Lane, Runcorn; Asda, Widnes Road, Widnes; Lidl, Unit 1 Edwards Road, Runcorn; Morrisons, Green Oaks Way, Widnes; Paul Niblock, 140 Birchfield Road, Widnes; Poundland, Widnes Shopping Park, Widnes, sparklers and fountains only; Rightway LTD, Linkway, Runcorn; Tesco Superstore, Lugsdale Road, Widnes; The Range, Unit 87, Runcorn Shopping City.
Cllr Dave Cargill (Trading Standards) said: “As well as putting themselves and the public at risk unlicensed sellers are unlikely to have insurance to provide cover in case an accident occurs.”