HEALTH bosses are issuing a stern warning to revellers expected to bring in the Millennium with a bang.

Fireworks are now on sale well ahead of festivities in shops across Bolton and are expected to be the highlight of many New Year's Eve parties.

But the Regional Director of Public Health for the NHS Executive, Professor John Ashton, said that a mixture of alcohol and fireworks could be a deadly combination.

Prof Ashton said: "I am sure that many people are including fireworks in their Millennium celebrations and we do not want to spoil their fun.

"However, we would ask anyone responsible for lighting fireworks on December 31 not to drink.

"Alcohol impairs your judgement and if you fail to concentrate on what you are doing, you could be at risk of serious injury."

The most common injuries are those to the hands and face caused by people throwing fireworks, health bosses warn.

They also say that children account for the majority of burns cases each year but on New years Eve adults under the influence of alcohol are equally at risk.

Kevin Ryan, manager of the Burns Unit at Booth Hall Children's Hospital, Manchester, is also concerned that Millennium celebrations could turn sour.

Mr Ryan said: " The fact that fireworks are still available at this time of year and could be used at celebrations where alcohol is present is a very big concern for us."

Fire crews are also issuing a general warning for revellers to beware of the dangers - especially of some of the bigger, more spectacular fireworks expected to be lit to mark the Millennium.

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