Letter: Time to launch fireworks out of the shops
SIR – We are at at that time of year again when people – some children, some mindless adults – let off fireworks at any time of the day and night to celebrate Guy Fawkes night.
What used to be a jolly and enjoyable evening on 5th November has now turned into something that causes such grief for so many people.
It no longer takes place just on 5th November but goes on for days, sometimes weeks depending on where you live, causing not only disturbed nights but also psychological distress to animals.
Last Saturday evening we watched our eight-month-old puppy go into meltdown because of this total disregard for others. With what seemed like cruise missiles being launched from a nearby house, our house literally shook and our dog. She was a wreck and hasn't fully recovered yet, days later.
Several years ago, COFFAW (Control of Fireworks for Animal Welfare) ran a campaign and it was fairly successful in that they persuaded the government of the day to ban the sale of the very loudest fireworks and to limit the times when they could be set off.
However, the legislation was far short of what they campaigned for. I believe it is time to start a fresh debate about the sale of fireworks to the public, not only on the grounds of health and safety, but also antisocial behaviour and, most importantly of all, animal cruelty.
Seeing our little puppy in such distress at the weekend is something I really don't want to witness again.
We have the next barrage to look forward to at new year, and it won't just be at midnight but will go on and on.
The firework industry is powerful but I do think if enough people are in support of action, then we can get a grip on the problem if we all work together.
If any of your readers are interested in helping to start a new campaign that will try and persuade the government to bring in legislation to either ban the sale of fireworks to the general public or to encourage public displays instead, then I would love to hear from them.
I can be contacted on spitfirechimp@gmail.com
John Bryan,
Lyndhurst
