Tens of thousands of people have signed a petition calling for a ban on fireworks outside official displays.

The online petition, filed via the official government website, demands an end to the current system which allows anyone aged 18 or over to purchase fireworks.

Instead, Mike Old - who created the petition - argues new laws should ban private use of fireworks - and only allow them at official organised events, such as council-run displays, to help prevent injuries to people and animals.

"Every year 1,000s of people are hurt, burnt, maimed and even lose their lives through accidents involving fireworks," he wrote.

"Every year people are terrorised by the misuse of fireworks. Every year animals are hurt and traumatised by fireworks.

"Ban them please."

More than 56,000 people have signed the petition so far.

What do you think?