ORGANISERS of firework displays are being urged not to cut corners by the safety watchdog. Up to 1,000 people each year are injured by fireworks.

ORGANISERS of firework displays are being urged not to cut corners by the safety watchdog.

Up to 1,000 people each year are injured by fireworks, and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is concerned that there may be more if organisers ignore safety procedures to reduce costs.

Major displays, involving large numbers of spectators, can cost thousands of pounds and Allen Webb, principal inspector in HSE's Explosives Inspectorate, said:

"We provide simple and clear advice to help displays go off both safely, and with a bang!"

HSE is also advising organisers to consider obtaining public liability insurance, although it is not required by law.