A fireworks enthusiast who last May was fined €7,000 after he was found guilty of the involuntary homicide of an unlicensed helper was this evening acquitted on appeal.

Zaren Barbara, 62, had been allowed into the property where a small room exploded on November 15, 2007.

Vincent Falzon, 44, of Żurrieq had also been charged with the manslaughter of Freddie Cassar, 46.

However, Magistrate Audrey Demicoli had exonerated him of the second death after she heard Mr Falzon was very cautious and conscientious in his work at the factory.

Mr Justice David Scicluna said when handing down his decision that there was a lurking doubt about Mr Falzon's criminal guilt.