A THREE-YEAR-OLD boy and his dad suffered burns to their hands and faces after being hit by a stray firework at a church fun day.

The father and son were at Bishopstoke Evangelical Church enjoying a Fireworks Fun Day when the rogue firework hit them during the final display of the evening.

More than 50 people, mostly families, watched in horror as the pair were each struck in the face, just before 6pm, as they stood within the grounds of the church in Stoke Park Road in Fair Oak.

An ambulance was called to the scene, which took the dad, who is in his 30s, and the toddler, to Southampton General Hospital.

Police were informed of the incident but because it was deemed an accident they are not investigating.

Both father and son, who are not members of the church, suffered burns to their hands and faces but their injuries are not thought to be serious.

Yesterday the small bonfire made of tree branches still stood on the grass within the gates of the church as members of the congregation gathered for prayers.

The fun day, which was the first firework event that the church has hosted, started at 3pm, offering a firework display and bonfire, as well as a bouncy castle, a toddler play area, a barbecue, painting and crafts.

Ten minutes before the end, one of the many fireworks shot off out of control into the crowd, hitting both father and son.

Pastor Paul Hatchard told the Daily Echo that they were in touch with the family and confirmed: “During a firework event an incident occurred in which a father and his three-year-old son suffered burns from a firework.

“Both were taken by the emergency services to hospital where they received treatment.

“We are totally shocked and concerned about what has happened and our hearts and prayers go out to the family and all who have been affected.”

South Central Ambulance Service (SCAS) was also called to Lydgate Road in Southampton on Saturday night after a firework blew up in the hands of a 25-yearold just after 9.10pm. He was also taken to Southampton General Hospital.

A spokesperson from SCAS urged those thinking of hosting their own fireworks display to take care and follow the instructions.

l How the south celebrated