FURTHER calls have been made to ban the sale of fireworks to the public after a hedgehog died when one was attached to its head and set off. 

Reports were made to police of an incident  in Pendlebury Close, Longton, on Saturday night.

A spokesman for the South Ribble Police said: "We have been made aware of an incident in the Longton area in which a firework has been attached to the head of a hedgehog and set off.

"It comes with great sadness to say that due to this incident the hedgehog has had to be put down due to the extent of it injuries.

"We request that anyone who may have any information regarding this incident come forward.

"Please call 101 quoting log 1702 of the 8th November or report anonymously to crime stoppers on 0800 555 111."

The post to their Facebook page attracted over 1,000 comments, with one woman stating: "What is wrong with people? This is dreadful. Another reason for a ban on the public being able to buy fireworks they are dangerous weapons, that poor animal must have really suffered."

Another commenter, said: "Here’s hoping someone knows something and does the right thing so who ever is responsible can be brought to justice.

"It’s a very sad world we live in these days. Run free little hog so glad someone found you and took you to be put out of your misery."