POLICE were forced to respond to two similar incidents yesterday after youths set off fireworks at residents and officers.

Essex Police were called to The Green at Grear Notley in Saturday after reports of anti-social behaviour involving firewokrs.

Officers say on two occasions a group of youths fired fireworks directly at officers.

Police have now launched an investigation and are seeking information about the suspects.

A similar incident in Witham on Spa Road tool place the same day with youths aiming fireworks at cars and residents.

One target included a woman who was walking with her new born baby.

Officers were able to seize fireworks in connection with the incident.

An Essex Police spokesman said: "On Saturday 31 October 2020 The Green at Great Notley experienced anti-social behaviour whereby youths were setting off fireworks.

"On two separate occasions the youths fired fireworks directly at police officers.

"Whilst fireworks did not hit the officers we cannot under estimate the severity of this incident.

"An investigation is underway and we seeking information about the youths who were involved.

"Meanwhile, in Witham, youths on Spa Road were caught shooting fireworks at passing vehicles, members of the public including a female who was out walking with her new-born baby.

"A selection of fireworks were seized in connection with incident.

"If you know of any of these issues or have any information that could assist us please email braintree.and.uttlesford.community.policing.team@essex.police.uk."