Police in Midland, Texas recently disposed of approximately 20,000lb (9071kg) worth of illegal fireworks in a controlled explosion.

The process took three-and-a-half days to complete, and only took place during daylight hours because "it was not meant to be a fireworks show", police said.

The fireworks were seized by federal authorities and were ordered to be destroyed by a court.

Bomb squads from several Texas police agencies were on hand to assist with the explosion.