Parents grabbed their children and ran after bits of 'shrapnel' raining down on crowds attending Wimbledon's Winter Wonderland yesterday, it has been claimed.

Thousands of people flocked to the town centre to witness the spectacular fireworks above Centre Court shopping centre in The Broadway.

But a Centre Court shop worker contacted the Wimbledon Guardian to express his concern that "bits and pieces from the fireworks" started landing on spectators below.

James Carter, 28, said: "At about 5.30pm I left through the side exit. As I was leaving I heard very loud bangs and was startled when I realized fireworks had been set off on the roof of the shopping centre.

"After about four minutes I become aware of lots of bits of shrapnel showering down on the crowd including myself.

"The scene seen became very unsafe and lots of people started to grab their children and run from the area.

"A mum grabbed her kids and left. Me and my colleague looked at each other and got out of there sharpish.

"I saw about nine people leave. Most people stayed but it could have been a lot worse."

He suggested there should be a safety cordon between the shopping centre and the crowds so they were not directly under the explosions.

Helen Clark Bell, manager of Love Wimbledon, said the business improvement district which organises the event will investigate comments.

She said: "Centre Court hire a professional pyrotechnic company to provide the display who undertake a full risk assessment.

"As the display happens in a tight town centre environment the sound of the fireworks will echo off the buildings and the bangs and the pops are part of an interesting firework display - many people enjoyed it and we always hope we can continue to have this popular display in the heart of our town.

"We work closely with all the businesses, Merton Council and the Metropolitan police to make sure safety is a priority. Many thousands of people enjoy the display and we want all of those viewing to enjoy it and feel safe as well."