EAST Lothian residents are divided on whether fireworks should be banned from public sale.

The Government's website states that you cannot buy 'adult' fireworks if you're under 18, and it’s against the law to set off fireworks between 11pm and 7am, except on certain occasions.

Adult fireworks are category 2 and 3 fireworks, and do not include things like party poppers.

The law also states that the public can't set off or throw fireworks (including sparklers) in the street or other public places, and to not set off fireworks between 11pm and 7am, except for Bonfire Night, New Year’s Eve, Diwali, and Chinese New Year.

The cut-off on Bonfire Night is midnight, but for New Year celebrations the cut off is 1am.

However, some people argue that the noise and danger associated with fireworks make them unsuitable for general purchase.

Earlier this week, we asked you what you thought about the public sale of fireworks and received a diverse range of comments from Courier readers.

On whether fireworks should be banned from public sale, one commenter said: "Yes, they are far bigger and noisier than they were when I was growing up, plus youths today are out of control this time of year. It’s about time their privileges were taken away."

Animal owners are particularly upset about the sale of fireworks, claiming they cause distress to pets.

One such reader noted: "Definitely, my dog is terrified and he is in a house, imagine the animals that are outside."

Some readers suggested stricter regulations on the sale of fireworks.

This commenter added: "The fact that the only requirement for buying fireworks (which are explosive devices) is being over 18 is baffling.

"There should absolutely at minimum be a licence required for buying them, if not removed from public sale and used solely for organised events.

"The public have proven they can't be trusted with fireworks.

"Anti-social behaviour aside, they're dangerous and should not be used by people who don't know what they're doing."

Another reader expressed concerns about the potential for misuse, saying: "They are dangerous and pollutants (noise and chemical).

"The growing trend of them being used for violence surely seals the deal about banning them."

Despite these concerns, others believe the sale of fireworks should continue, arguing that they are a source of enjoyment for many.

A commenter said: "No, of course not. A sad indictment of our society that there are so many killjoys here saying they should.

"Why should I not be able to let off a few fireworks in my garden because other people won't keep their kids under control?"