Fireworks have been linked to both a balcony fire and instances of anti-social behaviour in London in the days surrounding Halloween on Sunday (October 31).

Emergency services in the capital reported a busy weekend in both the south west and south east, with fireworks connected to callouts for both London Fire Brigade (LFB) and Met Police services.

In Greenwich, police seized what they described as "non-branded fireworks" from a 13-year-old, suggesting they had "prevented them from being chucked at colleagues, innocent members of the public or it blowing his hand off..."

Police in the borough's Woolwich Riverside area also reported incidents involving teenagers and fireworks.

A spokesperson described "extremely anti-social" behaviour including fireworks and an assault on an emergency services worker over the weekend.

"This weekend we were disappointed to see some individuals acting in an extremely anti-social manner. We have dealt with those appropriately, including a number of arrests for possession of fireworks under 18 years, possession of a taser, assault on emergency workers and affray," a tweet from the police force read.

Meanwhile in Hounslow fire crews were called to a flat fire that broke out on a balcony in Lampton Road.

LFB said that fireworks were believed to have been involved.

"Firefighters have issued a warning on using fireworks safely after a flat fire on Lampton Road in Hounslow. Half of a balcony on the fifth floor of a residential block of flats was damaged by fire. There were no reports of any injuries. The fire is believed to have involved a firework," a spokesperson described.

Station Officer Daniel Wareham, who was at the scene, said: "On arrival, a balcony on the fifth floor of the building was alight and producing heavy smoke. Crews worked very quickly to bring the fire under control and prevent further damage."

The LFB officer added a number of warnings to those using fireworks ahead of bonfire night on November 5.

"We encourage people to attend organised fireworks displays instead of using fireworks privately, but if you do choose to use fireworks, make sure you have enough space, buy them from a reputable, licensed seller and always look for a CE mark to make sure they’re safe," he said. "Never drink alcohol and set off fireworks and don’t throw fireworks or return to a firework once it has been lit. Remember that fireworks are explosives, and as such should be treated with respect and only used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and the Firework Code."