Few responsible people will argue with the call by Bradford Council's chief executive Ian Stewart for the district to be allowed to adopt a tough new scheme banning the throwing of fireworks in the street.

The measure, under which over-18s can be fined £40 if they break the rule, is presently being piloted in four other areas of Britain. However, it seems such a common-sense restriction on reckless behaviour that it cries out to be adopted generally.

Fireworks have always caused injuries but the problem has grown worse as the devices have increased in power. Modern-day fireworks are a long way from the modest bangers and "rip-raps" of yesteryear. As many people in Bradford will testify from year-round, nerve-shattering experience, the huge explosions they make shake the air, rattle the windows and can cause parts of the city to sound like a war zone.

Small wonder, then, that they are also capable of causing serious injuries when thrown about in the street. Given that Bradford has been named as one of the country's worst fireworks accident hotspots, Mr Stewart is right to be asking the district's MPs to make representations in the House of Commons to have the pilot scheme extended here.

This move, coming on top of a new drive to stamp out illegal sales to children, is part of a welcome campaign to bring fireworks back under control. However, there is still a long way to go to the ideal situation which would see the sale of them restricted to licensed operators for use only in public displays.