TWO more names have joined the condemnation of Bradford's firework chaos today.

The growing list of figures coming out publicly to speak about the issue, particularly in the run up to Bonfire Night, now includes the Deputy Chief Fire Officer and a Bradford Council Executive Member. 

Councillor Abdul Jabar, Executive Member for Neighbourhoods and Community Safety described attacks from firework yobs as "brainless acts of hooliganism."

He said: "Bonfire Night should be a celebration of our nation’s cultural history and a festive family get-together, not an excuse for thugs to terrorise law-abiding citizens by throwing fireworks at cars or to ambush members of the emergency services."

The councillor (Lab, Great Horton) wanted the criminals to realise their actions could lead to an avoidable tragedy on their own doorsteps.

He explained that emergency services may respond cautiously to future incidents, such as a house fire or medical crisis, as a result of previous attacks and ambushes.

Cllr Jabar said: "Would they find rock and firework onslaughts so amusing if it was one of their own relatives put at risk of death or serious injury because the emergency services couldn’t get there in time to save them?"

Bradford Council has put in place several preventive measures for the upcoming festivities.

It will work with various services to educate youngsters about enjoying Bonfire Night responsbily, as well as sending neighbourhood wardens out to advise shopkeepers to not sell fireworks, matches and lighters to under-age customers.

Deputy Chief Fire Officer Dave Walton also denounced the reckless and dangerous use of fireworks.

He said: "It is surely only a matter of time before serious injury occurs and someone suffers the life changing consequences of the misuse of fireworks."

Fireworks thrown on Girlington Road, near Thornton Road, by a gang of youths on Sunday led to a two-car crash with one man left stranded after police were outnumbered.

Superintendent Daniel Greenwood, of Bradford District Police, spoke about the incident at the time and had more stern words to give now.

He said: “The reckless and dangerous use of fireworks will not be tolerated in Bradford District and investigations are on-going with partners to identify those who have been involved in their misuse.

“Some of the behaviour we have seen is abhorrent and falls far below any acceptable standard.

He added: “Fireworks are potentially lethal weapons when used inappropriately and anyone who uses them to cause fear or injury to others will be arrested and prosecuted where possible.

Mr Greenwood also reiterated that any one deliberately setting illegal fires or committing other acts of arson will be dealt with.