Ayrshire Sainsbury’s stores will not be selling fireworks this year as it becomes the first British retailer to ban fireworks following concerns for pet safety. 

The retailer, which first opened 150 years ago, confirmed it will stop selling the products across all 2,300 of their stores this year.

But other major shops are keeping fireworks on their shelves and instead selling “silent” versions or including safety advice to protect animals.

Stores in Prestwick, Irvine and Saltcoats will all be participating in the refusal to sell fireworks and will instead sell light up accessories for bonfire night. 

A Sainsbury’s spokesperson said: “We regularly review the products available in our stores and we are no longer selling fireworks based on a range of factors.

“Customers can continue to choose from a range of seasonal products, such as glow sticks and light-up spinning wands.”

Dogs Trust, a charity focusing on the welfare of dogs congratulated Sainsbury’s on their decision and have encouraged others to do the same.

A spokesperson from the trust said: “Although they can look beautiful, fireworks can be very distressing for dogs when let off unexpectedly, and because they are so easily accessible all year-round, dog owners are on tenterhooks as to when their beloved pooch will next be frightened.”