Latest from Horse & Hound in Fireworks

The time is now: the Government finally asks for your thoughts on how fireworks affect horses, other animals and people

Eleanor Jones — Thu, 16 Jul 2026 17:36:19 +0000

Now is the time to make your voice heard on the impact fireworks can have on horses – as the Government has finally asked for the public’s opinion.

Today (16 July) the Government has launched a public fireworks consultation on “common-sense proposals” that would mean the loudest fireworks could be used only in professional displays.

– Take part in the public fireworks consultation.

The aim is to “crack down on anti-social behaviour and protect vulnerable people, pets and wildlife” and “target a small number of fireworks which have caused distress for residents across the country for too long”, but allow professional displays to continue as before.

This follows multiple debates in parliament sparked by hundreds of thousands of signatures on petitions calling for tougher firework laws, as well as sustained campaigning.

Redwings Horse Sanctuary, one of 19 charities in the Fireworks Impact Coalition highlighting the effect of fireworks can have on people, pets, horses, farm animals and wildlife, has been working for change for years.

Fireworks consultation welcomed

“Having campaigned for improved fireworks regulations after tragically losing three of our own rescued horses due to loud fireworks, Redwings knows the scale of distress, suffering and risk to life that fireworks cause every year, not only to horses, but to the people around them,” said Redwings campaigns manager Helen Whitelegg. “In our survey of more than 5,000 UK horse owners, over 95% told us they wanted to see tighter fireworks regulations; loud bangs cited as the most significant risk factor.

“We therefore warmly welcome the news today that the Government will be consulting with the public on this issue and would encourage animal lovers everywhere to participate and have their say on behalf of those who cannot speak for themselves. These proposals aim to tackle the biggest concerns raised by the public – particularly noise and antisocial behaviour – while protecting cherished traditions and organised displays that bring communities together.”

The consultation also includes proposals to review whether other high-risk products should be banned from public sale.

Ms Whitelegg said: “When our petition was discussed by 58 MPs in parliamentary debate in January, we heard several MPs echo the thoughts of Robbie Moore, MP for Keighley and Ilkley, when he said, ‘the time for talk is over and we need action now’. Petition debates have become an almost annual event, and we welcome the public consultation as a key step on the road to meaningful regulatory change that will help protect both animals and people.”

MP’s campaign

Luton MP Sarah Owen introduced a private member’s bill to restrict the noise and sale of fireworks, nearly two years ago. Ms Owen has told H&H she often hears of the “absolute distress” caused by fireworks.

She said today: “It has been over 20 years since our fireworks laws have been looked into, so this review is a major win for the campaign to finally deal with the problem of antisocial fireworks that affects so many across the country.

“Ever since I became an MP in 2019, I have been saying our out-of-date fireworks laws needed to change – it’s so good to see this become reality.

“Between the licensing loophole, high noise limits and lack of proper enforcement, our current laws mean misery for residents, often for months on end. It undermines trust that the council and police can act on things that make life worse for people and turns neighbour against neighbour.

“I look forward to engaging with the Government in its review and continuing to make the argument for change.”

The RSPCA’s head of public affairs David Bowles said the charity is “thrilled by this major step forward”.

“We now urge pet owners and animal lovers across England and Wales to act now and give their voice to this consultation and help ensure safer and more responsible use of fireworks,” he said.

“For too long now, pets, horses, wildlife and farm animals have been deeply affected by the impact of fireworks and the lack of regulation – including from DIY and impromptu displays.

“Animals such as dogs and horses can suffer from tinnitus, hearing loss and long-term hearing damage caused by fireworks, while all animals can experience stress and fear – which has in some instances lead to injury and even death. Similarly, livestock and other animals living outdoors often try to escape the bangs out of fear, sometimes injuring themselves in the process, and the consequences can be devastating.”

The RSPCA is also a member of the coalition, and has long called for tighter restrictions on fireworks.

“We’ve known for some time that the public support restrictions; 66% of pet owners found backyard fireworks displayed to be a major concern, but regulation has lagged behind for too long, so this is a really positive step forward,” Mr Bowles said.

“This campaign has never been about spoiling people’s fun, but only ever about protecting animals, together – and this new UK Government consultation has the potential to be a game-changer for animals..

“We now have an amazing opportunity to give animals a voice by rallying all those who care about animals to respond to the consultation and show their support for these long-awaited restrictions, and a better world for every kind.”

Fireworks consultation is your chance to make change

British Horse Society safety team manager Des Payne told H&H the charity welcomes and supports the consultation; the BHS has also campaigned with other coalition members for years for changes to the law.

“Today’s announcement marks a significant moment and a huge step forward in making vital changes to support the needs of vulnerable people and animals,” he said.

“We know that fireworks can have a devastating impact on horses and other animals, causing fear, distress and, in some cases, serious injury or death. That’s why it is so important that members of the public, horse owners and everyone affected take the time to respond to the consultation. The more evidence and lived experiences that are shared, the stronger the case for meaningful change.

“While we are encouraged to see this issue being considered, we also recognise that there is still a long way to go. This consultation is just the beginning, and we will continue working with Government and partners to ensure the needs of horses and the wider equestrian community are properly recognised in future fireworks legislation.

“We encourage everyone to make their voice heard and help ensure this opportunity leads to lasting improvements for horse safety and welfare.”

Take part in the consultation

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MPs’ and campaigners’ delight at consultation on tougher firework laws – although Government won’t confirm it

Eleanor Jones — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 13:59:35 +0000

Campaigners and MPs have reacted with delight to rumour that the Government is to hold a consultation on tightening fireworks laws – although the Government has yet to confirm this.

The Politics Home website reported this week that the plan is to consider whether to update which fireworks are banned, review requirements for “lower-risk” fireworks and reduce the noise limit for consumer fireworks.

The news was welcomed by Redwings, whose petition calling for lower noise limits for fireworks was debated in parliament in January, having been signed by more than 184,000 people.

“Redwings is absolutely delighted at the news that the Government is due to hold a public consultation on the sale and use of fireworks,” the charity’s campaigns and policy manager Helen Whitelegg said.

“We hope this signals real commitment to change and know many horse owners will welcome the opportunity to take part in the consultation and share their experiences, concerns and frustrations around fireworks.

“We are not anti-fireworks. We are simply asking for a better balance to be found that allows traditional celebrations to continue in a way that doesn’t cause such widespread harm and distress and harm to animals and vulnerable people. We hope that by seeking the opinions of the public, ministers are signalling their awareness that current regulations are no longer fit for purpose and a new approach is needed.”

Sarah Owen MP, whose private member’s bill to restrict the noise and sale of fireworks is due to have its second reading on 17 April, said she was “delighted” to share the fact that “we are now firmly on the road to banning the misuse and importantly nuisance fireworks”.

“After my private member’s bill, many petitions, debates, and meetings with ministers, I know that there is a strong consensus in parliament to support the restriction of noise levels of fireworks – as well as who can buy them and where they can be sold,” she said.

“I know this continues to be a source of anger, fear, and sleep deprivation for local people. Our Labour government is listening. As soon as details are available for the consultation, I’ll be inviting you to take part.”

Fireworks consultation unconfirmed

H&H asked the Government department for business and trade, under whose remit firework laws fall, about the issue.

A spokesperson would not confirm that a consultation is to be held, nor comment further on the subject, directing H&H to comments made by minister Kate Dearden during January’s debate.

She said then: “I assure members and advocacy groups that I have heard their concerns, and will be asking for better regulations and urgency for action. I will continue to seriously consider them as I look to further mitigate the negative impact of illegal and antisocial firework use on our communities.

“We will continue to gather that evidence and continue to hear from organisations, charities and campaigners to ensure that any changes to legislation are effective.”

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‘Enough is enough’: seventh debate on fireworks takes place but Government still unwilling to set timeline for change

Becky Murray — Thu, 22 Jan 2026 18:08:28 +0000

MPs debating fireworks for the seventh time have agreed that “enough is enough” – but the Government has failed to commit to a timeline for change to “outdated and irresponsible” legislation.

On 19 January MPs met at Westminster to debate Redwings’ petition calling for a reduction in the maximum noise level of consumer fireworks, and a petition calling for firework sales to be limited to council-approved events. MP

Robbie Moore opened proceedings, having also led the last fireworks debate in parliament, in 2024.

“The petitions we are debating have received more than 183,000 and 193,000 signatures respectively. It is undeniable that the inappropriate use of fireworks can have a devastating impact,” he said.

Mr Moore said that change does not need to mean an outright ban – but tougher measures could be introduced on noise levels.

“I urge the Government to look at that and not just respond: ‘We are going to take this away and think about it’ – because that is the response that we have had for far too long,” he said.

MPs from across the house shared constituents’ stories of distress caused to animals, veterans, the elderly and those with mental health concerns – and MPs Neil Hudson and Danny Chambers spoke about their experiences as vets treating animals with fireworks-related injuries.

Dewsbury and Batley MP Iqbal Mohamed said the petitions are not calling for an “overreach by the state by pushing for an outright ban”.

“They recognise the cultural importance of fireworks in bringing communities together, but rightfully argue that public access, in its current form, is outdated and irresponsible,” he said.

MP Sarah Owen (Luton North) who has supported campaigns and introduced a private member’s bill on fireworks sales in 2024, said there was “cross-party consensus that firework laws are not fit for purpose”.

“Here we are again; another petition, another debate and another year without meaningful change on the important issue,” she said.

“We are going to continue banging on about this, and I thank the campaigners and all the petitioners, particularly the Firework Impact Coalition, all of which want to see change in the law.”

Ellesmere Port and Bromborough Labour MP Justin Madders, who was parliamentary under-secretary of state for business and trade at the last debate, said: “Every year, we get more and more members attending, and more and more of the public demanding change. I think the case has been made that it is now time to act.”

MP Kate Dearden – who took over as under-secretary from Mr Madders in September – said she understood the urgency, but was “not able to provide a timeline at this stage”.

“I assure members and advocacy groups that I have heard their concerns, and will be asking for better regulations and urgency for action. I will continue to seriously consider them as I look to further mitigate the negative impact of illegal and anti-social firework use,” she said.

“We will continue to gather evidence and hear from organisations, charities and campaigners to ensure that any changes to legislation are effective.”

Redwings campaigns and policy manager Helen Whitelegg said that overall the debate had been “overwhelmingly positive about the need for urgent change” – but that the Government’s response was not unexpected.

“As frustrating as it is for all of us who care about this issue, change takes time and the minister has indicated her willingness to meet, which we’ll be taking her up on,” she said.

Ms Whitelegg added that Redwings will keep working with other fireworks campaigners, and has “lots of activities planned for 2026”.

“Campaign supporters have got us this far and we need their help to keep up the pressure. Keep signing relevant petitions. Don’t sign fewer, sign more, and keep writing to your MP,” she said.

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‘We’ve been waiting for this’: horse owners urged to act as Government agrees to debate fireworks – again

Becky Murray — Mon, 22 Dec 2025 15:35:09 +0000

Two fireworks petitions signed by more than 361,000 people collectively will be debated in parliament next month – the seventh Government debate on this topic.

In September Redwings launched a petition calling for the maximum noise level of consumer fireworks be reduced from 120 to 90 decibels. The petition reached the 100,000 signatures needed for it to be considered for debate in less than eight weeks, and has since surpassed 176,000 signatures.

The other petition, which calls for the sale of fireworks to be limited to those running local council approved events only, has been signed by more than 185,000 people since it was started in August.

On Saturday (20 December) it was announced that a debate for both petitions has been scheduled in parliament on 19 January 2026.

“We’ve been waiting for this announcement for some weeks and are delighted that the debate will come shortly after New Year’s Eve, another date strongly associated with fireworks,” said Helen Whitelegg, Redwings campaigns and policy manager.

“As with all parliamentary debates, a relevant Government minister will be there to listen and respond, making this a vital opportunity to canvass the people responsible for fireworks regulations and ensure they understand the strength of feeling on this issue across the UK.”

This will be the seventh time the Government has debated fireworks. The last debate took place on 9 December 2024, during which Justin Madders – the under-secretary of state for business and trade at the time – acknowledged that there was a lack of evidence about the effectiveness of current regulation.

Last month the Fireworks Impact Coalition – of which Redwings is a part – held an MP drop-in event at Westminster.

“Ninety-five MPs from England, Scotland, Wales and across the political spectrum came to talk about the effects of fireworks on animals and people, and we hope they will be motivated to attend [the debate],” said Ms Whitelegg.

Horse owners are encouraged to write to their MPs using Redwings’ template, asking them to get involved.

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‘I’m done with the lack of action’: actor adds voice to fireworks campaign

Becky Murray — Fri, 12 Dec 2025 18:26:25 +0000

A new short film sharing the stories of five horses who have “suffered because of fireworks” – including one who had to be put down and another who sustained a broken jaw – has added to the calls for change to legislation.

Redwings released the film, narrated by actor and animal welfare advocate Dan Richardson, as part of its ongoing Keep Horses In Mind fireworks campaign.

The film shares the stories of Vello, Zuri, Cailin, Lucy and Tango, all who have been affected by firework-related incidents. Vello was injured jumping a gate when he escaped, and Lucy broke her jaw when she galloped into a gate. Zuri developed colic and Cailin’s owner Lucy suffered long-term injuries when she fell and was trampled as Cailin panicked when a firework went off as she was taken out of her stable. Tango “died in fear and severe pain” after developing “stress-induced colic” when fireworks were set off on 31 December 2021.

Redwings campaigns manager Helen Whitelegg said in most of these cases the owners did not know fireworks were going to be let off nearby – but even if they had, the fireworks were “so close by, advance knowledge probably wouldn’t have been enough to keep their horses safe”.

“No matter what owners do, when loud fireworks are set off close to horses, they are at risk, and just because they’ve been fine in the past doesn’t mean they’ll be fine in future,” said Ms Whitelegg.

“Of course, horses are only one species negatively affected by loud fireworks; the repercussions of one person’s fun can have a huge impact on companion, working, farm and wild animals, as well as other people and the environment.”

As New Year’s Eve approaches, Redwings is asking people who choose to use fireworks to “keep horses, and others in mind and use low noise fireworks, if at all”.

Dan Richardson, who starred in Disney series The Lodge and British film The Harsh Night of Day, said he fully supports Redwings’ campaign.

“As an animal lover, I’m absolutely done with the lack of action on this issue, and I know thousands of others are sick and tired of it too,” he said.

“The time for change is now, and we all need to take action. If you haven’t already done so, please sign Redwings’ petition, and share it with your friends. And if you must use fireworks this new year, please think of the five horses in this film, and make them low noise.”

Sign the Redwings petition.

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‘You have to fight for it’: horse world’s continued push for change to firework legislation

Becky Murray — Wed, 10 Dec 2025 11:44:52 +0000

The calls for change to firework legislation continue as horse owners prepare for New Year’s Eve celebrations – but what is the solution?

Every year horses suffer injuries – some of which are fatal – in incidents involving fireworks.

Fireworks are no longer just an issue on 5 November; they are used to celebrate New Year’s Eve, Diwali and Chinese New Year – as well as weddings and other occasions. Although regulations exist around when fireworks can be bought and let off, problems still occur.

As the year comes to a close, H&H has reviewed the current situation and spoken to those campaigning for change.

Horse owner Joanna Barnett has raised awareness about fireworks since the loss of her mare Tallulah, who died when fireworks were let off near her field in Horley, Surrey, on 31 December 2022. Tallulah “crashed through a fence in terror” and was found collapsed on the road. She received veterinary treatment, but could not be saved.

Pictured: Joanna Barnett and her much-loved mare Tallulah. (Image credit: creditUnknown)

“She was suffering and it became abundantly clear the only thing I could do was put her to sleep,” Joanna told H&H.

“We’ve since created our own animal safe zone, and other than the village organised display, I don’t think anyone lets off fireworks now, which has made a huge difference. But another nearby village the week before Halloween, it was like a war zone. How can you prepare animals for that? Until you’ve seen that suffering, people don’t understand.”

Equine welfare charity Redwings has this first-hand experience, having lost three residents, Cinders, Percy and Sprite, to fireworks-related incidents.

Pictured left-to-right: Cinders, Percy and Sprite. (Image credit: Redwings)

Redwings introduced its Keep Horses in Mind initiative in 2024 calling for a review of legislation, raising awareness and gathering evidence via a round-table discussion and survey. This September Redwings launched a petition asking for the maximum noise level for consumer fireworks to be reduced from 120 to 90 decibels. By November it reached the 100,000 signatures needed to be considered for a parliament debate and it is awaiting an update.

“There are a range of options in terms of what would be the ideal solution,” Redwings campaigns manager Helen Whitelegg told H&H, adding that these range from an outright ban to limiting fireworks to organised licensed displays – as is being called for by another petition.

“The reason we’re pushing this noise angle is we feel it is a more practical solution at a time when the Government is reluctant to consider more involved regulatory change, particularly ones that place burdens on local authorities.”

The petition has more than 174,000 signatures.

Sign the petition

“We know this call for noise to be reduced appeals to dog owners, military veterans, people with autistic family members. We’re really pleased to be bringing people together,” said Ms Whitelegg.

The Government responded on 7 November, having issued an earlier response which was challenged by the petitions committee owing to not “directly responding” to the petition’s request.

The revised Government response stated: “Noise is one of the key issues we are seeking views on. The Government is also considering the experience of other countries where lower noise limits are in place for consumer fireworks to understand the impact this has had and to identify best practice”.

Below video: A number of horse owners shared video footage with H&H of recent incidents showing the impact of fireworks on their horses.

“You can’t give up. Change is never given to anyone”

Luton North MP Sarah Owen introduced a private member’s bill in October 2024 to restrict the noise and sale of fireworks. Ms Owen told H&H she hears regularly about the “absolute distress” caused by fireworks.

“I want to see change,” Ms Owen said. “I think that there is a mixture of people that use fireworks for anti-social behaviour, but there are also a group that just don’t know what they’re buying. If you look at the packaging, the F categories don’t really mean anything to most people.”

Fireworks in the UK are categorised from F1 to F4. The first three categories apply to consumer fireworks that can be used by the public; sparklers and party poppers are category F1 and can be used indoors and F2 fireworks are considered suitable for confined areas such as gardens. F3 fireworks, which includes large rockets, have a minimum spectator distance of 25m. Category F4 fireworks may only be bought and operated by professionals.

The bill’s second reading is scheduled for 16 January 2026, having been delayed as parliament discussed the assisted dying bill. In the meantime, Ms Owen is having meetings and sponsored an event at Westminster on 12 November organised by the Fireworks Impact Coalition, a group made up of 19 human and animal charities, and attended by 94 MPs.

Ms Owen believes there is still work needed to find the right solution – and said this should focus on licensing.

“Looking at Scotland, exclusion [control] zones haven’t solved the problem, and so it does give pause for thought, what is the best way? I don’t think any country has really cracked this. For me, it’s the licensing side – if you just go down the enforcement route, they’re [loud fireworks] still in the market,” she said.

An ongoing talking point is why nothing has yet changed. Ms Owen said change requires time – and much of parliament’s time has been dominated in the last two years by the economy, health and women’s safety.

“You can’t give up. Change is never given to anyone. You really have to fight for it,” she said, highlighting that as there was a change in Government last year, many MPs are newer to these discussions.

The British Horse Society’s latest firework statistics. (Image credit: creditUnknown)

Scotland’s approach

The Scottish Government launched the Fireworks and Pyrotechnics Articles (Scotland) Act 2022. Under this, local authorities can grant control zones – as referenced by Ms Owen – where it is against the law for the public to set off fireworks anywhere in the zone, including on private property, but organised public displays are allowed.

H&H sent freedom of information requests to local authorities to ask how many zones have been granted.

Of the 32 local authorities, six received applications since 2023 – but only two, Glasgow City and City of Edinburgh, granted zones. One local authority did not hold this information.

From the 19 applications Glasgow received in 2024, eight were from animal welfare groups and two were granted. Of 13 applications received this year, two related to animals and both were granted.

The City of Edinburgh Council granted all four applications it received in 2024 and nine of 11 applications in 2025 – all which cited either animals, horses and or/wildlife.

In 2024 and 2025 animal charity SSPCA had a zone at its Edinburgh site, where residents include horses. The charity told H&H it made the animals “much calmer”. But an application for its small animal Glasgow site was rejected, and the charity said better dialogue is needed with local authorities to “understand what the barriers are to securing zones”.

The British Horse Society (BHS) said Scotland has “led the way” with firework legislation – but highlighted concerns.

“How these zones should and could be enforced is an ongoing challenge and there is work to be done,” Des Payne, BHS safety team manager, told H&H, adding that the criteria for a zone are “not well publicised”.

Ms Payne said the Scottish legislation was “rushed through” and some provisions have been paused including mandatory licensing for fireworks. Responding to this, a Scottish Government spokesperson told H&H the “majority” of the act was implemented but licensing was paused owing to “significant financial and resource consequences”.

“Nobody would condone irresponsible use”

H&H spoke to Tom Smith of the British Pyrotechnists Association (BPA), a trade body that represents professional firework display companies and works with the Government and organisations including the RSPCA.

The BPA advocates: “the right fireworks, in the right place, at the right time” and encourages organisers to let people know of planned displays. But Dr Smith does not believe there is a need for tougher legislation.

“Nobody, and certainly not the industry, would condone irresponsible, illegal use. Even if you’re letting off fireworks in your garden we say, ‘Let your neighbours know’,” he said.

“In terms of consumer fireworks, there’s restrictions on periods of sale, time they may be used, noise level. Restricting sales to a shorter period is not necessarily going to make it any better – unintended consequences are always a problem.

“I think the problem has got worse in Scotland since the regulations [were introduced]. There could be all sorts of reasons for that, but the basic one I think is that it was poorly enforced.”

A Scottish Government spokesperson told H&H Police Scotland reported an almost 37% reduction in fireworks-related calls in 2025 compared to 2024 – and “no significant incidents” were recorded between 31 October and 4 November this year.

Invite your MP to your yard

MP for Winchester and equine vet Danny Chambers told H&H he has treated horses with fireworks-related injuries. He is in favour of a noise reduction and having more control over who can set them off and when.

Mr Chambers encourages horse owners to speak to their MPs, adding that as a vet he is aware of the challenges, but other MPs will not have this experience.

“Invite your MP to your yard or event and get them to meet your horses. It will mean more than just getting an email saying, ‘My horse doesn’t like fireworks’ – when they’ve never seen a horse react,” he said.

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A foal impaled on machinery, a two-year-old with a broken leg, a mare with a broken jaw: the stark reality of fireworks’ terror

Eleanor Jones — Mon, 17 Nov 2025 18:22:31 +0000

A months-old foal dead after it was impaled on farm machinery, a two-year-old put down with a broken leg and a horse left with a broken jaw.

These are just some of the incidents reported so far in the past few weeks, of horses terrified by fireworks and dying, or being seriously injured, as a result. H&H reported on the display in West Sussex after which the two-year-old was found fatally injured, and it is understood the foal broke out of its field in panic owing to fireworks.

Welfare sanctuary Redwings cited the cases, as well as “devastating incidents” involving other animals and people, as it provided an update on its campaign for tighter firework laws.

H&H reported that Redwings’ Government petition calling for a lower maximum noise for fireworks had reached 100,000 signatures, which means it must be considered for parliamentary debate.

On 12 November, the Fireworks Impact Coalition, comprising 19 charities focused on animals and people, hosted a drop-in event at Westminster on the impact of fireworks, and 95 MPs attended from across the country and political spectrum.

“It was great to meet so many MPs and hear how supportive they are for current fireworks regulations to be reviewed and potentially overhauled,” said Redwings campaigns and policy manager Helen Whitelegg. “A lot of those who attended said they would be keen to support a parliamentary debate on the topic. At this time, we’re waiting to hear whether the Government will hold a debate following the level of support our petition has attracted.”

Ms Whitelegg cited another current Government petition calling for firework use to be limited to council-approved events, which has been signed by more than 180,000 people.

“There have been so many tragedies involving fireworks shared on social media and covered in the mainstream news over the past two weeks,” she said.

“A five-month old foal was impaled on some farming machinery in Riddlesden, West Yorkshire, and died. A two-year-old horse suffered a broken leg and had to be put to sleep after a large firework display near their home in West Sussex. On Friday we spoke with an owner whose horse hit their head after being spooked by fireworks and x-rays have shown she has a broken jaw. Lucy isn’t out of the woods yet and is facing eight weeks of soft food every few hours and continued veterinary support that will lead to significant cost.

“These are just some of the incidents involving horses that have happened this year that we know about, as well as many devastating incidents involving dogs and other animals. Children and adults have been badly injured. Fireworks have been thrown at police.”

Ms Whitelegg added that the charity has never had as many MPs at a similar event, and is grateful to those who went.

“A bland response from Government to these calls for change won’t be acceptable now,” she said. “People want and need more effective restrictions on the use of fireworks in the UK, for people, animals and the environment.”

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‘What on earth was he thinking?’ Boss of pet company issues grovelling apology for his firework display after young horse suffers fatal injury

Eleanor Jones — Thu, 13 Nov 2025 17:20:49 +0000

The chief executive of a company dedicated to animals has issued a grovelling apology after his fireworks display during which a horse sustained a fatal injury – and which “sounded like a plane exploding over the house”.

Pets Corner CEO Dean Richmond, who “grew up surrounded by animals” with a mother who was a “keen horse rider”, held the display at his home in West Sussex on 8 November. The next morning, he was told by a neighbour that a two-year-old horse had panicked, suffered a broken leg and had to be put down.

Pets Corner issued a statement, including a response from Mr Richmond, who said he had “notified several nearby neighbours about the planned display, but with hindsight, I appreciate that I should have shared that information more widely”.

One rider who had not been told of the display keeps her horses about a mile away.

“I’ve never heard anything like it,” she told H&H.

“I’d just made dinner and all of a sudden, it sounded like an aeroplane had exploded overhead. The house shook. The dogs scattered and I thought ‘Oh my god, the horses’.”

The rider said her horses and dogs are not usually bothered by small firework displays.

“Like a sonic boom”

“But this was like bombs going off, like a sonic boom,” she said. “There must have been 15 of those huge bangs, then all the other ones going off, like a professional display.

“My young horse was trying to jump out of his stable – thank god I’ve got anti-weave grilles – and my poor pony didn’t eat for 48 hours afterwards. It was absolutely hideous.”

The rider said she has other horses who live out, so she went to check them next.

“I couldn’t see them but I could hear them galloping about,” she said. “I couldn’t go in there, I spent all night just praying they’d be all right. The next morning, they were dripping with sweat, all huddled together and the wooden gate was smashed where they must have run into it, but they were all right. That was me being lucky – the other owner wasn’t.”

It is understood the owners of the horse who died found him with a broken leg.

“As soon as we heard about that poor horse, that was it,” the rider said. “We’re warriors when it comes to our horses, no way are we not going to fight. The only good thing is that he’ll never do it again but he should have put his hands up and said ‘Oh my god. What have I done?’

“He’s the boss of a company that’s for pets, and has products to help dogs with fireworks. What on earth was he thinking? This has to stop, and if something from this comes to stop people buying fireworks, that has to be a good thing.”

Fireworks petition

The display came days before a drop-in event for MPs in parliament, organised by welfare charity Redwings, whose petition calling for change to firework laws has been signed by over the 100,000 figure needed to be considered for parliamentary debate.

Shirley Light, whose Brendon Stud is about four miles away, told H&H she heard the fireworks loud and clear.

“I lost a two-year-old to a broken leg because of fireworks in 2001,” she said. “Nearly 25 years later, nothing has changed.”

In its statement, Pets Corner said it was “deeply saddened”, and that although it was not a company event, customers and staff had been affected.

“At Pets Corner, the wellbeing of animals is at the heart of everything we do,” the statement reads. “We understand that horses are not only companions but beloved members of the family, and we share in the sorrow of this loss.”

The statement added that Dean’s family founded Pets Corner, which has “grown from this family background of living closely with animals and caring deeply for them”.

“An annual firework display was a long-standing family tradition when Dean was growing up, with his parents hosting small bonfire events for friends and family. Dean wished to continue this tradition by holding a similar event at his home this year for friends, family, and neighbours.

“The bonfire was lit at approximately 6pm, followed by the main firework display at around 6:15 pm, which lasted for six and a half minutes. Following the event, Dean received feedback from a number of local residents, many expressed appreciation and enjoyment of the display, while a few raised concerns.”

“Sincere apologies”

In response, Mr Richmond sent a statement to residents, expressing his “sincere apologies”.

“It was never my intention to cause inconvenience or distress to anyone in the village,” he said. “I had notified several nearby neighbours about the planned display, but with hindsight, I appreciate that I should have shared that information more widely. I am genuinely sorry for any upset this may have caused.

“The event was carefully planned to take place earlier in the evening to minimise disruption, and the bonfire area was securely fenced to protect any nearby wildlife. The display itself was conducted by a professional fireworks company and intended as a celebration with friends, family, and local neighbours.

“I was deeply saddened to hear that a horse may have been injured and subsequently put to sleep. This is truly distressing news, and I am in direct contact with the owners. The field where the horses were kept is over 800 metres from the display site, which I had understood to be outside the area likely to be affected.

“As someone who cares deeply about animals – including my own two dogs – I am sincerely sorry for any distress the event may have caused. Please be assured that I will not be holding any further fireworks displays in the future.

“I very much want to live in the village for many years with my family, and I truly wish to contribute positively to its success and the wellbeing of all our fellow residents.”

Read the full statement

Pets Corner added that Mr Richmond told his nearest neighbours about the display, “unfortunately, he did not realise that others further away might be impacted”.

“He accepts that he should have communicated more widely and regrets this oversight,” the statement said.

“The following day, a horse owner from a property over 800m away informed Dean that one of their horses had panicked during the evening, resulting in a broken leg, and that the animal had to be put to sleep. Dean is in contact with the owners. Dean, his family, and everyone at Pets Corner are devastated by this tragic news. We all share deep sadness over what has happened.

“There were other displays on this evening in the area, and we would like to remind people that social media is not always a fair or balanced forum. Some of the comments and accusations circulating online are untrue.

“This event was intended purely as an enjoyable gathering for friends, family, and neighbours. Dean never intended to upset anyone or cause harm of any kind; that is simply not who he is, and he is extremely sorry for anyone affected by it.”

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‘You’ve got to be brave’: tiny rider asks pony to be courageous as yard faces another night of fireworks ‘hell’

Eleanor Jones — Sat, 08 Nov 2025 12:52:57 +0000

A tiny rider has been urging her pony to be brave, as he and his yard-mates prepare for “another night of hell” owing to fireworks.

Elly Darling told H&H her daughter Esme, two and a half, had been excited about going to a display on Bonfire Night.

“I said I was really sorry but we couldn’t go as we couldn’t leave the yard because the horses would be scared and now all she’s worried about is her pony and whether he’s frightened,” Elly said.

She explained that the few “local-ish” displays over the past few days had been “manageable”.

“The horses aren’t settled but they’re not distraught,” she said. “But we had one last year that was very close (see video below) and I’ve got videos of the horses going crazy, because we weren’t aware so didn’t have time to sedate them or anything.”

But this year, Elly said, she was alerted by some other people letting them know they were planning a display very close to the stables tomorrow (9 November).

She has 10 horses, including three stallions, and cannot easily move them all for the night.

Elly said she contacted the police but was told that although if the display happens and a horse or person is injured, they will be able to act but they cannot tell people not to have displays.

“That seems ridiculous,” she said. “Why let it get to that point, it seems so wrong. I don’t think we’re going to be able to stop this but maybe it will make people more aware. Fireworks seem to get worse every year.

“I’ve got two horses recovering from ulcers, due to be rescoped on Tuesday and I have no idea what’s going on, whether they’ll be bad again, as both will react to the fireworks.

“The law needs to change, and we’re not going to change it today but maybe, by kicking up as much of a fuss as we can, we can change it in future. I’m sick of sitting down and taking it because it’s not fair on the animals.”

Elly has enlisted the help of her vet to sedate her stallions but she also has dogs who will be “beside themselves”.

“I have a plea to anyone wanting to set off fireworks this weekend to stop,” she said. “Attend an organised display. Don’t subject our poor horses to another night of hell.

“The more people who hear about it, maybe at some point, something will change.”

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‘Copy and paste responses don’t wash any more’: MPs tell Government to reconsider firework response as 100,000 sign petition

Eleanor Jones — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 14:36:25 +0000

More than 100,000 people have signed the latest petition calling for changes to firework laws – as the Government has been asked by MPs to reconsider its initial response.

H&H reported that welfare charity Redwings’ call for the maximum noise level of fireworks to be reduced from 120 to 90 decibels had been signed by 10,000 people. The Government responded to it, as it must when any petition is signed this many times, but essentially dismissed it.

The number of signatures had climbed to over 100,000 this week – which means the petition must be considered for debate in parliament – but there was another update.

“The petitions committee (the group of MPs who oversee the petitions system) has considered the Government’s response to this petition,” those who had signed it were told. “They felt the response did not respond directly to the request of the petition. They have therefore asked the Government to provide a revised response. When the committee receives a revised response from the Government, we will publish this and share it with you.”

This petition, the latest in a series calling for tighter restrictions on firework sale and use and signed by more than 100,000 people, is part of a wider Redwings campaign.

The charity, which has lost three rescued horses to the effects of fireworks, has been campaigning for change, carrying out a survey of horse owners, meeting the Government to talk about concerns and planning a drop-in event for MPs in the House of Commons next week (12 November).

After the Government’s initial response to the petition, Redwings said last week it was “disappointed but unsurprised to read that at this stage the Government is continuing to focus on the need to promote responsible use of fireworks within current regulations”.

The charity’s campaigns and policy manager Helen Whitelegg told H&H today: “These copy and paste responses to this issue don’t wash any more. We are pleased to hear that the Government is being asked to reconsider their reply and look forward to receiving it.”

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‘The effect fireworks can have on horses’: footage of horses in distress highlights need for ‘meaningful reform’ to legislation

Becky Murray — Sun, 02 Nov 2025 13:03:32 +0000

A video has highlighted the distress that fireworks can cause to horses – as calls for “meaningful reform” to legislation continue to mount.

The footage shows a fireworks display taking place near a livery yard on 19 October 2025, of which the horse owners were given just 24 hours notice.

Redwings, which released the video on behalf of the yard manager and horse owners, shared the message: “This is the effect fireworks can have on horses”.

“The organisers of this display say they now recognise the level of distress fireworks can cause. They have committed to low-noise fireworks in future and everyone at the livery yard is very grateful for that pledge,” said a Redwings spokesperson.

The equestrian community is being encouraged to sign Redwings’ petition to reduce the volume of consumer fireworks from 120 to 90 decibels.

Sign the petition

The Firework Campaign Group is supporting this petition and is “renewing its call for meaningful reform to protect individuals and animals” from the impact of fireworks.

“Despite legislative progress in Scotland – most notably the Fireworks and Pyrotechnic Articles (Scotland) Act 2022 – no equivalent protections exist elsewhere in the UK,” said the group’s founder Julie Doorne.

“As bonfire night approaches, the Firework Campaign Group is ramping up its media presence to challenge the narrative that fireworks are harmless fun. The campaign seeks to highlight the real-world consequences of unregulated fireworks, from frightened pets and wildlife to distressed individuals and disrupted communities.”

The group has formed the Association for Firework Legislation Reform (AFLR), a strategic body designed to support the Firework Impact Coalition – “a powerful alliance of major UK charities united in their concern over firework-related harm”. AFLR is inviting smaller charities and UK businesses to support the association and “lend their voices to the growing movement”.

“We are very excited to help smaller charities and anyone else to have a voice where they haven’t had one before. By uniting under a common banner, the coalition aims to amplify its influence and push for legislative change that reflects the lived experiences of those affected,” said Ms Doorne.

“If you represent a charity, business or organisation that believes in safer, more compassionate celebrations, now is the time to act. Join AFLR and help share the future of firework legislation in the UK.”

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16 useful tips to help horses cope with fireworks

georgia.guerin@futurenet.com (Georgia Guerin) — Wed, 29 Oct 2025 13:27:22 +0000

Horses and fireworks are not a good combination – even the calmest of horses can get stressed, anxious and frightened by the loud noises, strong vibrations, sudden flashes and smells of smoke. This can trigger a flight response, which can lead to dangerous situations, such as horses trying to escape.

As a result, the period around bonfire night (Wednesday 5 November 2025) can be extremely stressful for horse owners and horses alike, with many equestrians being among those joining top riders and celebrities petitioning government for a change in the laws around fireworks.

We’ve pulled together some advice from equine vet and founder of VetMedi Charlotte Inness and the British Horse Society to help make the season as stress-free as possible for you and your horse.

Tips for dealing with horses and fireworks

1. Speak to your neighbours in advance wherever possible to find out if they plan to let off fireworks. If they do, explain the dangers and ask whether they might be prepared to use low-noise fireworks and to set the fireworks off in a direction that is well away from your animals. Knowing in advance when fireworks are likely to be set off enables you to prepare.

Speaking to neighbours in advance can help you plan ahead (Image credit: creditUnknown)

2. Check if anyone is planning to have a bonfire near your yard. Make sure you have an emergency fire procedure in place and everyone on the yard knows what to do. If you have any doubts, talk to your local fire safety officer.

3. Decide whether to stable your horse or leave it in the field. It is sensible to keep your horse in its familiar environment – if this is not too close to displays – in its normal routine, with any companions to make it feel secure.

4. Check your stable and/or field thoroughly for anything that could cause potential injury, such as protruding nails, string, damaged fencing or stray rubbish.

5. Stay with your horse – or ensure someone experienced can – if you know that fireworks are being set off. If it is necessary for you to leave your horse in someone else’s care, be sure to leave clear instructions and contact details for both you and your vet should any problems arise.

Make sure your horse has plenty of forage to help keep them calm and distracted (Image credit: creditUnknown)

6. Ensure your horse always has access to forage. “Chewing has a soothing effect and calms the stomach,” Charlotte explains, and suggests preparing their favourite treat for just before the fireworks start to further distract them and help them relax.

7. Discuss sedation with your vet or consider moving your horse for the night if you know they will be stressed.

8. Consider using a natural calming supplement or instant calmer. These don’t need a prescription but “can ease stress and anxiety in mild to moderate cases,” Charlotte adds. “Always test these well before firework season to see how your horse reacts.”

9. Play music on a radio outside the stable to help mask sudden noise and distract attention.

Keeping stable lights on can lessen the effect of flashing fireworks (Image credit: creditUnknown)

10. Keep lights on in the stable to minimise the bright flashes from fireworks.

11. Try to remain calm yourself and keep positive as horses will sense unease in a person and this may make things worse if they are startled.

12. Be aware of your own safety – a startled horse can be dangerous so do not put yourself at risk.

13. Don’t risk riding when you think fireworks might be set off.

14. Avoid heavy exercising your horse before fireworks to tire them out because the exertion itself may increase stress. Instead, allow your horse to relax, have the day off, and let them spend time with their herd.

15. Avoid resuming intense work immediately – the mental strain of the fireworks can be taxing, and horses can remain on edge in the coming days, so opt for a relaxing walk or grooming session to help your horse recover.

16. Make sure that you have adequate third party liability insurance. If your horse is frightened and escapes, causing an accident, then you could be held liable for compensation.

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Celebrities and top riders back call for firework law change – but Government is unmoving

Eleanor Jones — Wed, 29 Oct 2025 12:15:25 +0000

Celebrities and top riders are among those backing calls to strengthen laws on fireworks – which the Government has essentially dismissed.

Nearly 64,000 people have signed a petition started by welfare charity Redwings, calling for the maximum noise of fireworks to be reduced from 120 to 90 decibels.

Supporters include top showjumper Joe Stockdale, Olympic dressage rider Richard Davison, actor and writer Sir Stephen Fry and actor Kate Ford. The Government has responded, which it must to any petition with 10,000 signatures or more, but only with a similar statement to that it has made to previous petitions on the subject.

Three Redwings equine residents have died as a result of firework use, and the charity has been campaigning for change.

“We think each year, individuals suffer because of loud fireworks,” the charity’s petition states. “We believe horses, dogs, cats, livestock and wildlife can be terrified by noisy fireworks and many people find them intolerable.

“We think both humans and animals are less likely to be distressed by fireworks noise below 90dB. We believe lower noise levels would allow fireworks to be enjoyed while potentially reducing some of their many negative impacts.”

Joe Stockdale said that as someone who has spent his life with horses, he is well aware of the negative effect fireworks can have on them.

“I totally support Redwings’ efforts to raise awareness and seek change that could limit the danger posed by using loud fireworks,” he said. “I have signed and shared this petition and am urging everyone to keep horses in mind.”

The petition is still live online

Sir Stephen Fry said he has long admired Redwings’ work.

“It’s become something of a tradition for me to support the work of this wonderful charity,” he said. “I was delighted to offer my voice to their campaign asking for a reduction in the maximum volume of consumer fireworks by signing their petition and I would really encourage everyone to get behind this.”

The petition is the latest in a series asking for tightened firework laws; previous calls have been backed by hundreds of thousands of people, sparking debates in parliament.

“The Government has been listening to concerns raised by members of the public regarding the impact of firework noise,” the Government response states.

“The Government recognises that some people have strong feelings about fireworks and the potential impact they can have on communities, for example, by causing disturbances to vulnerable individuals and groups or animals. However, we also know that fireworks, when used responsibly, are a source of enjoyment for many people.”

The response adds that regulations govern firework sale and use, reiterates the 120 decibel limit and adds that lower-noise options are available.

“To ensure people continue to use fireworks in a safe and considerate manner, the Government has launched a fireworks campaign for this fireworks season to provide guidance on minimising the impacts of fireworks on animal welfare and encouraging responsible use,” it states. “Lower-noise fireworks are promoted in the campaign alongside considerate use.”

“Disappointed but unsurprised”

Redwings said it was “disappointed but unsurprised to read that at this stage the Government is continuing to focus on the need to promote responsible use of fireworks within current regulations”.

“Unfortunately, we believe this approach is ineffective and places an impractical burden on firework users themselves to fully understand the multiple negative impacts a single display may have, and make fully informed decisions as a result,” a spokesperson for the charity said.

“While we welcome the Government’s efforts to raise awareness of the potential impact of fireworks, we don’t feel the messages are strong or clear enough to adequately convey the level of risk even legal use of fireworks involves and how important it is that those considering using fireworks take steps to mitigate those risks. We are also unsure that these messages will reach enough people to make a difference.”

The charity said it is confident the petition will reach 100,000 signatures, so will be considered for a parliament debate, and that the Government find it “hard to avoid” growing evidence and support for the need to change regulations.

The Fireworks Impact Coalition, of which Redwings is part, is hosting a drop-in session for MPs in the House of Commons on 12 November.

“The aim is influencing those with the power to bring about change,” the Redwings spokesperson said.

Anyone who wants to ask their MP to attend can find their details, and use a template letter, on the Redwings website.

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Many owners unable to keep their horses safe from fireworks – new petition calls for law change

Eleanor Jones — Mon, 08 Sep 2025 16:46:49 +0000

Owners have limited ability to protect horses from fireworks even with advance warning of displays, a survey has found, as new calls are made for the Government to tighten relevant legislation.

Redwings has published more analysis of its research involving more than 5,000 people, having released a preliminary report in February, and created a new Government petition calling for change.

“There is compelling evidence that the ability of owners to keep their horses safe is limited when fireworks are set off nearby, even with advance notice,” a Redwings spokesperson said. “The data shows stabled horses are still vulnerable when fireworks are set off and at risk of injury, illness or even death. A third (33%) of horses sustaining long-term injury or illness were stabled at the time.”

More than 75% of respondents took action to protect horses from the effects of fireworks, such as stabling them and giving sedation.

“But the data suggests there are no simple solutions to managing horses during fireworks,” the spokesperson said, adding that most of those who used prescription sedation rated it only moderately or slightly effective, and almost half rated over-the-counter calmers only slightly effective.

Redwings’ campaigns and policy manager Helen Whitelegg said over 70% of respondents whose horses had been affected by fireworks had not been aware a display was planned, and half of those whose horses were affected said they were stabled at the time.

“Horses may be statistically less likely to injure themselves or escape while in a stable, but risk of harm or even fatality is certainly not eliminated,” she said. “Survey findings also indicate that stabled horses may potentially be more vulnerable to distress when fireworks are let off.”

More than 95% of respondents agreed that there should be tighter regulation of fireworks.

“Welcome advice for owners on steps that may help to protect horses from fireworks is widely available yet these findings suggest a shift in focus from the responsibilities of horse owners to the responsibilities of those who use, enjoy, manufacture, sell and regulate fireworks is needed,” the report concludes.

The petition, live now on the Government website, calls for the maximum noise level of fireworks sold in the UK to be reduced from 120 to 90 decibels.

Sign the petition

“We know there is widespread support for calls to tighten fireworks regulations and we hope this is a positive way for people to make their voice heard and appeal to policymakers,” Ms Whitelegg told H&H. “The Government is obliged to respond to any petition that reaches 10,000 signatures, and consider for parliamentary debate those reaching 100,000, which is our goal.

“Redwings is not alone in having lost much-loved horses to fireworks and the current lack of regulation also has far wider impacts, from pets, livestock and wildlife to people living with PTSD or sensory issues like autism. We fully appreciate that many people enjoy fireworks, but more balanced regulation is desperately needed.

“Research, including our own survey of over 5,000 UK horse owners, supports our belief that reducing the permitted noise levels for fireworks could help to achieve that balance. It is a practical solution at a time when we know there are so many demands on government and local authority resources. We don’t want to spoil people’s traditional celebrations, we simply want far fewer animals and people to be at risk of distress, injury and even death when fireworks are let off.”

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Government hears from owners on fireworks – after 130 horses have died

Eleanor Jones — Tue, 18 Feb 2025 16:18:07 +0000

Thounsands of people have told the Government in detail about the devastating impact of fireworks – including the deaths of more than 130 horses.

Welfare charity Redwings presented the results of its recent survey to Justin Madders, parliamentary under-secretary at the Government’s department for business and trade, in a meeting with members of the Fireworks Working Group – a coalition of both people and animal welfare charities, including Redwings – on 4 February.

The survey was completed by more than 5,000 people, over 90% of whom said increased use of low-noise fireworks and firework alternatives would benefit horses. The results showed that 67.9% had experience of horses’ being negatively affected.

This included those put down as a result of fireworks, and some had escaped from fields and been hit by vehicles. Aborting foals, colic symptoms and escaping from stables were also reported. Almost all respondents, 94.8%, said fireworks should be more tightly regulated.

Redwings campaigns and policy manager Helen Whitelegg said the response rate to the survey was high – more than 5,000 within five weeks.

“While all self-selecting surveys can experience some respondent bias, it is nevertheless clear that there are very strong feelings on this issue among the horse-owning public,” she said. “Over 15,000 comments were submitted as part of the survey, further analysis of which will be taking place and shared.”

Over 80% of respondents wanted firework use restricted to organised displays and over half to traditional dates such as Bonfire Night and New Year’s Eve. Over 70% would like noise levels reduced.

“Redwings is not anti-firework, and the majority of those who completed the survey do not want fireworks to be banned,” Ms Whitelegg said. “We just want to find a better balance, so that the enjoyment many people get from fireworks doesn’t come at such a high price to others.”

The meeting followed the second reading of MP Sarah Owen’s private members’ bill (17 January), which would reduce the maximum noise levels of fireworks and limit sales of “high noise” fireworks.

A government spokesperson told H&H: “We understand the concern over the impact of fireworks noise on people and animals and the disturbance this can cause and that’s why Minister Madders recently met concerned groups about this.

“There is already a maximum legal noise level for fireworks and we have launched a new fireworks safety campaign to help people use them considerately.”

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Your opinions matter so share your thoughts on fireworks ahead of Government meeting

Eleanor Jones — Wed, 01 Jan 2025 19:21:05 +0000

Redwings is urging horse owners to share their experiences and opinions of fireworks, to present to the Government as it considers a bid to change the law.

MP Sarah Owen’s private member’s bill, which calls for updates to firework legislation, will have its second reading on 17 January. A meeting of representatives of the Fireworks Working Group, which comprises human and animal welfare charities including Redwings, and business and trade parliamentary under-secretary Justin Madders, is scheduled for February.

Redwings wants to find out how horses and owners are affected by fireworks, so is asking all over-16 UK residents who directly care for at least one horse to fill in the survey before the Government meeting.

Take the survey online

Redwings campaigns and policy manager Helen Whitelegg said: “We know data is so important to these discussions, so we’re asking as many horse owners as possible to complete this important new survey.

“We want to hear from people with as wide a variety of experience and opinions on the subject as possible, so that robust and representative insights can be collected and shared with parliamentarians, policy makers and others.”

Redwings’ previous survey found that 97% of horse owners want more control on firework use; the charity has been lobbying for a change to the law and this year launched a “Keep horses in mind” campaign to encourage people to consider if and how they use fireworks.

At a parliamentary debate on two fireworks petitions in December, it was recognised that a change to the law is needed.

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‘The current regulations do not work’: MPs unite during fireworks debate as pressure mounts for change

Becky Murray — Sat, 14 Dec 2024 20:33:36 +0000

The increasing “misuse” of fireworks has been described as “downright anarchy” – as the Government acknowledges lack of evidence about the effectiveness of current regulations.

On 9 December, MPs debated two petitions in parliament – one calling for a ban on the sale of fireworks to the public (with 50,288 signatures), the other proposing to limit the sale and use of fireworks to licence holders (signed by 79,213). The latter was started by Alan Smith, whose 88-year-old mother, Josephine, died in October 2021 after teenagers posted lit fireworks through her letterbox.

Robbie Moore, MP for Keighley and Ilkley, opened the debate by highlighting the “terrible and traumatic damage” fireworks can cause.

“As with humans, fireworks can trigger the fight or flight response in animals. Pets and livestock are often terrified, and unlike us they do not understand the consequences when they are let off,” he said.

Although MPs gave many examples of firework misuse, it was broadly agreed that a ban could have “unintended consequences”, such as creating a black market.

But it was recognised that change is needed and suggestions included lowering the maximum noise limit to 90db, and further sales restrictions such as removing category F2 and F3 fireworks from public sale. F2 fireworks are intended for use in small areas such as gardens and F3 for use in large open areas.

Alex McIntyre, MP for Gloucester, said: “It is clear that the current regulations and enforcement do not work.”

This is the sixth Parliament debate on a fireworks petition since 2016.

Luton North MP Sarah Owen, who introduced a private member’s bill to restrict the noise and sale of fireworks (news, 22 October) said: “We have these well-meaning debates and hear the same thing time and again: ‘Isn’t this awful? Isn’t this horrific?’ – yet we have not seen action for 10 years. Nothing has changed.”

Scotland’s new firework legislation, including the introduction of control zones (news, 2 November 2023), was discussed – but Scottish MPs said that despite tighter regulations, “concerns remain” and “there is little evidence that it is having an impact”.

Responding on behalf of the Government, Justin Madders, the under-secretary of state for business and trade, said that for those who use fireworks responsibly, they are “an important part of celebrations”, but added: “How we have gone from that innocent, joyful experience to downright anarchy is a sad indictment.”

Mr Madders launched a firework guidance campaign this year, but admitted that “those determined to cause trouble and who do not have respect for others will not take heed of that”.

“I acknowledge that, as has been said, there is a paucity of evidence about the effectiveness of the current regulations,” he said.

“I am committed to engaging with stakeholders to understand the issues and inform any future decisions in this area. The safety of the public and the impact on people and animals will be paramount in those considerations. I hope this dialogue will continue.”

Redwings, whose recent survey indicated 97% of owners want more firework regulation, said cross-party support for tighter regulations “was evident”.

“It was encouraging to hear the minister’s recognition of the serious and sometimes devastating impact of fireworks and his willingness to continue constructive dialogue,” said Redwings’ campaigns and policy manager Helen Whitelegg.

“However, we remain concerned about the emphasis on owners to reduce the impact on animals when there is so little that can be done – the few options available are generally of limited benefit, impractical or both.”

Ms Whitelegg added that although the term “misuse” was often used during the debate, there is “a lack of clarity” on what this means when fireworks comply with current regulation.

“Stating that fireworks ‘should not be let off near horses’ is of little help without defining what ‘near’ means,” she said.

“Redwings looks forward to further engagement with parliamentarians to encourage meaningful change. We hope Sarah Owen’s private member’s bill will keep this on the agenda, with the second reading on 17 January.

Sadly, further evidence of the need for change is likely to be achieved through the unavoidable reality of additional distress and harm caused to horses and others over the approaching new year. We encourage anyone affected by fireworks to log the incident through the British Horse Society website.”

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Calls to contact MPs ahead of fireworks debate – as survey shows 97% of horse owners want change

Becky Murray — Fri, 29 Nov 2024 17:45:00 +0000

A Parliament debate on restrictions on the sale of fireworks has been scheduled next month – as a survey suggests 97% of horse owners want tougher regulations.

The debate will take place at 4.30pm on Monday 9 December and Redwings has urged owners to contact their MPs to ask them to get involved.

“We are aware of so many awful and avoidable instances of horses being frightened, hurt, escaped and even killed as a result of the use of fireworks this autumn and change is long overdue,” said Redwings policy and campaigns manager Helen Whitelegg.

“Redwings has put together a template letter to help people to contact their MP to ask them to get involved in the conversation around this important issue as more opportunities arise in the coming weeks.”

Access the template

The charity conducted a fireworks survey at Your Horse Live (8-10 November) and of the 179 participants, 97% said they wanted more regulations on restricting the use of fireworks. 81% of respondents said they are worried about the effects of fireworks on their horse, and of the owners whose horses had been affected by fireworks, 65% said their horses were nervous and agitated, 21% reported injury and illness, and 4% reported the death of their horse.

A Redwings spokesperson said the charity has received several calls and emails from concerned owners in the past few weeks. Michelle, an owner from Merseyside, contacted the charity after her horse was so frightened by fireworks on 5 November that he injured her, resulting in her needing surgery.

“There were adults in the cemetery car park right behind his stable letting off very loud fireworks, and he was so stressed that he reared up and landed his front hooves on the stable door and onto my left hand,” said Michelle.

“Luckily my partner managed to push him down, and he wasn’t hurt, but my middle finger was very badly cut so I had to go straight to hospital. My whole hand was swollen, and I had to go to trauma plastics for them to treat the tendon damage and a fracture to my finger.

“I called the police the next day, but they said that the people setting the fireworks off hadn’t broken the law.”

The Redwings spokesperson added that every year horses die and are injured because of fireworks.

“The people who love them – like Michelle – can also be very distressed and even injured as a result,” he said.

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‘It will be difficult to ignore’: fireworks petition with 1 million signatures delivered to Number 10

Becky Murray — Sun, 17 Nov 2024 21:02:15 +0000

MPs have pledged support for changes to fireworks legislation – as a petition with more than one million signatures, calling for an urgent review of regulation, has been delivered to Number 10.

On 30 October, 15 MPs or their representatives attended an awareness event at Westminster organised by The Fireworks Working Group – which includes charities such as Redwings and the RSPCA – to discuss the adverse effects of fireworks on animals and people.

Of the attendees, 12 MPs pledged support to the group’s campaign, including Neil Hudson, MP for Epping Forest, and Sarah Owen, MP for Luton North. Last month, Ms Owen introduced a private members’ bill to improve firework regulation, the second reading of which is scheduled for January (news, 24 October).

Mr Hudson, who sponsored the event, said that in his experience as a small and large animal vet, the impact of fireworks on animals is “huge”.

“I’ve sadly seen what happens when horses bolt and the catastrophic injuries sustained on fences and other obstacles,” he said.

“We need to strengthen the regulation of fireworks, particularly around private use, so animal owners, including farmers, can take the best precautions to keep their animals safe. Many people experience trauma with fireworks as well – for example, military veterans.”

Mr Hudson believes that with cross-party support, “we can come up with some sensible proposals to improve the law”.

Although the event coincided with the Budget, Redwings campaigns and policy manager Helen Whitelegg said it was “well attended”.

“The people who came were very supportive of the need to address the adverse impact of fireworks not only on horses, but also on other animals, people, wildlife and the environment, through changes to legislation,” she said.

“We recognise that many people do not realise that horses die or are injured every year because of fireworks, and often the people near them are injured. The stats are alarming, but we know they only tell part of the story, and many more incidents go unrecorded.”

On 5 November, fireworks campaigner Julie Doorne, accompanied by members of The Fireworks Working Group, delivered a change.org petition with more than a million signatures calling for an urgent review of firework legislation, to Number 10. The petition reached a million signatures in 2022, but owing to various circumstances including Covid and the election, its delivery was delayed.

“I’m convinced if the petition is seen by more people, then even more people will sign it, but it’s getting it in front of people who don’t have social media or see things online.

“Through the Association for Firework Legislation Reform, which includes some of the smaller charities, we hope we can gather more support,” said Mrs Doorne, adding that since presenting the petition to Number 10 and the media attention surrounding this, it has been signed by thousands more people.

Mrs Doorne said that with the mounting pressure from the public and various events, groups and charities – and continued firework-related incidents – she believes “it will be difficult for the Government to ignore this many people”.

She is also backing a petition to parliament created by the family of Josephine Smith – who died when a lit firework was put through her letterbox – calling for the sale and use of fireworks to be limited to licence holders only. If the petition is signed by 100,000 people, it will be considered for debate in parliament.

“We’ve got to get as many people as possible to sign this petition and get it to a debate,” she said.

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‘He was full of life’: firefighters urge public to think after veteran horse terrified by fireworks had to be put down

Eleanor Jones — Wed, 06 Nov 2024 10:55:12 +0000

A 30-year-old horse who was a “fantastic partner” and “full of life” had to be put down after he was terrified by fireworks being let off nearby.

Firefighters from Essex County Fire and Rescue Service shared the story of Claude, urging people to let neighbours know if they plan to let fireworks off, or go to organised displays.

“I share this post in consideration of animals like Claude,” a spokesperson for Newport Fire Station said.

“Claude was scared by fireworks and in a frantic state he ended up in a position he couldn’t get up from.”

The spokesperson said Newport crews and the service’s animal rescue unit were sent to the scene and worked hard to get Claude out of his stable.

“Unfortunately Claude didn’t have the strength to get up after being exhausted and in an uncomfortable position,” the spokesperson added. “All the crew from Newport are thinking of Claire and her family at this difficult time.

“This type of incident sticks with everyone involved and can be very traumatic. So please, if you’re planning on having fireworks, let your neighbours know. If you can, go to an organised event.”

Claire thanked the fire service, especially the Newport crew.

“Claude, a veteran of the Qunedon, Clavering and Newport bridleways and pictured here on the Newmarket gallops during a charity event, became cast in his stable,” she said.

“It is the dilemma of all horse owners whether to stable or keep a horse out at grass during the fireworks season. This time I chose wrongly.

“The kindness and consideration shown by the crew was amazing and I will always be grateful, but unfortunately, once extracted from the stable, the attending vet advised Claude should be euthanised. RIP Claude, a fantastic partner in many adventures.”

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Concerns of ‘us and them’ situation as club blames ‘unreasonable’ horse owners for cancelling fireworks

Becky Murray — Sat, 02 Nov 2024 19:32:33 +0000

Concerns have been raised about an “us and them” situation developing after a rugby club cancelled its firework display, blaming “unreasonable pressure” from the equine community.

Last year, Colchester Rugby Club, Essex, held a low-noise fireworks display at its grounds – which are surrounded by fields with up to 40 horses in them. Following negative feedback from the wider community on that display, the club announced it was “back with a bang this year” and would return to normal fireworks for its event on 3 November.

The club said: “After last year’s quieter display, we’re turning up the volume with the return of spectacular big bangs and dazzling pyrotechnics that will light up the night sky.”

Horse owners raised concerns with the club, including Redwings guardian Mark Kennedy, whose two rescue horses are kept “around 100 metres” from the site. Redwings, which has launched a new fireworks campaign and co-hosted an MPs’ regulation event (news, 24 October), also issued an open letter urging the club to reconsider its plans.

The club then cancelled the event, stating that “with much regret that due to unreasonable pressure from the local equine community, the executive committee have taken the decision to cancel the fireworks event”.

Mr Kennedy said he was relieved about the decision – but said there was not unreasonable pressure.

“I don’t think the club can say it’s unreasonable that we are expressing to them our concerns in an effort to protect our animals and ourselves,” he said.

“One of our horses can’t cope with being stabled, and putting horses in stables does not isolate them from the noise and the flashes of fireworks. We can’t simply move them away.

“We don’t take issue with the club having events – we acknowledge they do good work for charity – but there are other events they can have. We were terrified that our horses would come to harm and that we could come to harm by being with them.”

Redwings “welcomed” the cancellation and thanked the committee for taking the concerns of owners into consideration.

“The phrase ‘unreasonable pressure from the equine community’ is disappointing, however, reflecting a lack of understanding around the issue and entrenching a ‘them and us’ situation, which makes it harder to re-establish community connection and find a balance where we can all continue our traditions and celebrations in a way that is safe and enjoyable for everyone,” a Redwings spokesperson said, adding that the concerns about the display were “reasonable and evidence-based”.

“The law stipulates that owners are duty-bound to provide a suitable environment for their horses, but they lose control of that environment when loud explosions are going off over their premises and they can do little but wait for it to be over and hope everyone remains safe,” she said.

“Government guidance states that it is important to be considerate to owners as they cannot easily move horses away from fireworks, and the department for business, innovation and skills, in partnership with the British Fireworks Association and the Blue Cross, states that ‘fireworks must not be set off near livestock or horses in fields, or close to buildings housing livestock’.”

Before the display was cancelled, H&H contacted Colchester City Council about owners’ concerns and a spokesperson said that under the Animal Welfare Act, the “responsibility to ensure the welfare of animals lies with their owners”.

“This includes taking reasonable steps to protect animals, such as horses, during events like fireworks displays. We encourage all animal owners in the area to take appropriate precautions and make the necessary arrangements to safeguard their animals during the event. We would encourage all parties to act in the best interests of animal welfare,” the spokesperson said.

But Redwings campaigns and policy manager Helen Whitelegg told H&H this statement showed “a real lack of insight”.

“We really need to challenge this idea that horse owners can adequately protect their equines from the risk of fireworks and have sole responsibility for doing so. The issue lies in the fact that there is very little that they can do when 120dB explosions are going off over their premises,” she said.

“The comments from the rugby club and the council show how much we still have to do on this topic and why we need clear government guidance to balance the pros and cons of fireworks, rather than ending up with anger and frustration at an individual level which should be avoidable and meant a display could have been organised that could be enjoyed safely by everyone.”

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MPs invited to discuss ‘much-needed change’ to firework regulations

Becky Murray — Tue, 22 Oct 2024 16:24:12 +0000

MPs have been invited to discuss “much-needed” improvements to firework regulations, with the aim of raising awareness among “those who have the power to bring about change”.

Redwings has launched a campaign to better protect equines from the “fear, injury, illness and worse” that fireworks can cause. As part of the campaign, the charity is co-hosting a drop-in event for MPs in Westminster on 30 October, with other members of the Fireworks Working Group. The group includes animal welfare charities, as well as PTSD UK, the Children’s Burns Trust and Service Dogs UK.

“The event will highlight the adverse impact of fireworks, not only on horses but on other animals, people and the environment, with the aim of raising awareness among those who have the power to bring about change,” said Helen Whitelegg, Redwings campaigns and policy manager, adding that owners are urged to contact their MPs to ask them to attend.

Redwings hosted a round table with charities, vets, police and a barrister to discuss the Animal Welfare Act in relation to fireworks (news, 23 May) – and although it was agreed that the act is a “very good piece of legislation”, there is no specific mention of fireworks, so the “focus needs to be on better regulation”.

“The act was never designed to tackle fireworks – and it only addresses issues relating to animals, so you still have the impact on veterans and the environment. It’s not a catch-all approach,” Helen told H&H.

“So we would really like to focus on the regulations themselves, because that is ultimately where the problem comes from.”

Calls for change continue to grow; this month MP Sarah Owen introduced a private members’ bill in parliament to restrict the noise and sale of fireworks. The bill’s second reading will be on 17 January 2025.

A new Social Market Foundation report, sponsored by the RSPCA, found that of 1,000 British adults surveyed, there was a “broad support for tougher rules on fireworks”, and “openness towards newer kinds of animal-friendly displays”.

“We understand that many enjoy fireworks, but we can’t hide that many animals find fireworks deeply distressing and some end up injured or even lose their lives. We have campaigned for years urging the Government to revise fireworks regulations – ensuring they can be enjoyed responsibly, while better protecting animals,” said RSPCA campaigns manager Carrie Stones, adding that a review of regulations will protect animals and that the report’s findings show “the majority of people support this”.

Scotland has made progress with firework regulation with the introduction of the Fireworks and Pyrotechnic Articles (Scotland) Act in 2022, which includes restrictions on when fireworks can be sold, and local authorities having the powers to grant control zones. But a Scottish Government spokesperson confirmed to H&H that the timeframe for implementing a licensing scheme has been pushed back to 2026 owing to “financial pressures the Scottish Government is facing”.

A firework display has taken place near horse owner Debora Benson’s farm for the past four years and last year’s event was “like being in a war zone”. She believes the regulations do not go far enough, and she would like to see firework noise limits – and for display organisers to consider using silent fireworks.

“We don’t want to stop people having fun, we just want to avoid the loud bangs that can cause panic – it’s about compromise. There are well-meaning people who do good things for the community in organising displays, but they don’t understand how traumatic it is for animals or anyone with PTSD,” she said.

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The Animal Welfare Act challenged over powers in firework incidents

Becky Murray — Thu, 23 May 2024 16:36:51 +0000

The Animal Welfare Act does not offer protection for animals that suffer owing to fireworks, experts have agreed – as further calls are made for a “comprehensive review” of regulations.

Redwings hosted a round-table discussion with attendees including World Horse Welfare, the RSPCA, vets, police and a barrister, to discuss the act in relation to times fireworks are believed to have inadvertently led to the injury or death of an animal.

The discussion was “in response to statements made consistently by ministers at Westminster, which suggest that the act is a legislative tool that could be used in such scenarios”.

The Animal Welfare Act states it is an offence to cause “any unnecessary suffering to a captive or domestic animal” – but there is no specific mention of fireworks.

British Horse Society figures show there were 1,468 firework incidents involving horses between 1 November 2010 and 19 March 2024, and a Redwings spokesperson said the charity is not aware of any cases where the Animal Welfare Act has been used to address the “sometimes tragic impacts on animals”.

Some of the difficulties in applying the act were highlighted. For example, identifying who is responsible for incidents – the person who lit the firework, the landowner or the display organiser. It was agreed that there are challenges establishing a burden of proof that the firework had “unequivocally been the cause” of any suffering a horse has experienced – and the fact that setting off fireworks in line with regulations is a legal activity.

It was agreed that revision of regulations is needed, with suggestions including introducing firework licensing, creating codes of practice and implementing control zones such as those in Scotland (news, 2 November 2023).

“The Animal Welfare Act is a very good piece of legislation, but it wasn’t written to punish people for doing something the law currently endorses, such as holding a fireworks display in their back garden. The focus needs to be on better regulation,” said Nic de Brauwere, Redwings’ head of welfare and behaviour.

World Horse Welfare deputy chief executive Tony Tyler told H&H the act has “never been the appropriate mechanism to deal with the distress and injuries caused to horses by fireworks”.

“We are disappointed that the Government points to it as such,” he said, adding that “strengthening legislation is long overdue”.

RSPCA scientific and policy manager Mark Kennedy told H&H “a review of regulations will protect animals from harm”.

“We understand many people enjoy fireworks, but we can’t hide the fact that many animals find them deeply distressing and some end up injured or even lose their lives,” he said.

“We have campaigned for years urging the Government to revise fireworks regulations – ensuring they can be enjoyed responsibly, while better protecting animals. This round-table discussion showed we are not alone in wanting this.”

Redwings published a report from the discussion, which has been shared with the Government’s Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS), which deals with firework legislation.

Read the report

“We hope this report will mean that ministers will no longer hide behind the illusion that the Animal Welfare Act offers protection or recourse for those whose pets are caused to suffer because of fireworks,” said Redwings campaigns and policy manager Helen Whitelegg.

H&H contacted OPSS for comment and a spokesperson said that “due to the upcoming election and parliament being dissolved, we may not be able to confirm anything on this moving forward”.

‘The Government has to listen’: horse terrified by fireworks breaks his leg in the stable

Eleanor Jones — Sat, 09 Dec 2023 19:51:46 +0000

The heartbroken owners of a horse who suffered a catastrophic fatal injury as fireworks were let off nearby have asked why the law has not been changed to save animals’ lives.

Lea Sands told H&H her daughter Beth’s horse Warrior was “one of the family”. He had to be put down on the spot at the weekend after he broke his leg in his terror.

Lea said the fireworks were let off very near the private yard their horses are kept on, in Kent, with no warning.

“People need to know,” she said. “I’m not saying don’t have fireworks, but you can have lovely silent ones. This has to change, at Government level, but they don’t listen to anyone.”

Lea said the family had bought Warrior as a weanling, two years ago.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Lea and Beth were at the yard when the fireworks started, very close to the stables, at about 7pm, and Lea said they continued intermittently for two and a half hours.

“If we’d known it was going to happen, we could have sedated them, but he was going completely mad in his stable, so we couldn’t get the sedation into him,” she said. “It wasn’t his fault but he was careering round, rearing.

“He turned awkwardly and slipped, despite all the bedding. It was like he got caught in his own foot, and just the speed of the movement – I heard it go. I trained as a vet for four years and there was nothing we could do; the bone had come through the skin.”

Warrior had to be put down immediately.

“He suffered,” Lea said, adding that when asked to describe Warrior, Beth said simply: “He was my son.”

Lea added: “I’m no killjoy, if you want to have fireworks, be my guest. But have the silent ones. A venue near us had a display this year and some were silent, and they were lovely.

“The Government needs to start listening. We’re not asking for the earth.”

H&H has reported on numerous petitions to the Government, signed by hundreds of thousands of people, calling for tighter restrictions on fireworks. These have been debated in parliament but there has been no law change in England or Wales. Scotland brought in new firework legislation this year.

A Defra spokesman told H&H the Government “recognises that people want to enjoy fireworks at this time of year, however it is important that they are used responsibly and considerately to protect both people and animals”.

“There are strict regulations in place to control the sale and use of fireworks, including laws to protect animals from harm. It is an offence under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 to cause an animal any unnecessary suffering and this includes through the misuse of fireworks. The Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Act came into force on 29th June 2021 and has increased the maximum penalty for cruelty to animals to five years’ imprisonment.

“Last year the Government, in association with animal welfare organisations, and others, launched its Staying Safe with Fireworks campaign.”

The spokesman said this campaign included specific advice for horses and rural or farm settings, such as asking people to let neighbours know of fireworks well in advance.

“We also work closely with welfare charities, including Blue Cross, to provide further advice for animal owners on how to keep their animals safe around fireworks,” the spokesman said.

“Existing legislation controls the sale, availability and use of fireworks. You cannot buy ‘adult’ fireworks if you’re under 18, and it’s against the law for anyone to set off fireworks between 11pm and 7am, except on certain occasions. Using fireworks outside the curfew hours is a criminal offence enforced by the Police and can lead to imprisonment and a substantial fine. There is also a 120-decibel noise limit on the fireworks available to consumers.”

‘This has to stop’: horse found exhausted, injured and tangled in fence after fireworks nearby

Eleanor Jones — Fri, 17 Nov 2023 12:22:19 +0000

The owner of a horse found exhausted, injured and tangled in fencing said she cannot believe the law allows public sale and use of the fireworks that caused the incident.

Hailey Weston bought eight-year-old PRE gelding Cappy at the start of this year to do dressage, but he is now very lame and she does not know if he will recover. He was found on Sunday morning (12 November).

“This needs to stop,” Hailey told H&H. “If the people had told us they were having fireworks so close, we could have moved them; I’ve got empty stables. But they did it again the next night as well.”

Hailey, who owns a livery yard, said the owner of another horse found Cappy on Sunday morning. He had gone through the hedge of his own field, then got his hind leg caught in stock fencing surrounding a sheep field.

“She thought he was dead,” Hailey said. “She called me and when I got there, he lifted his head so I thought ‘He’s not dead. But he’s not in a good way’. They think he’d been there 10 or 11 hours.”

The churned ground around where Cappy was lying show the efforts he had made to get up, but to no avail.

“The right hind was stuck; it’s that one he’s still not really putting any weight on,” Hailey said. “That’s not really marked but the left hind is covered in almost friction burns, where he must have been kicking himself for hours as he tried to get free.

“He must have been so terrified; he’d gone through such a thick blackthorn hedge, you couldn’t even see a gap.”

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Hailey called for help, and some 45 to 50 firefighters turned up, including animal rescue specialists, but it took two hours to free Cappy and get him on his feet.

“He was absolutely exhausted,” she said. “He’s got big haematomas on his chest and stomach, numerous cuts and nerve damage. He’s on four bute a day and still as lame as he was; the vet said to give it a week and if he’s no better, we’ll X-ray. He’s in a very bad way.”

Hailey said she called the police, who said there was nothing they could do. She intends to approach the people responsible but is not convinced this will have any effect.

“They’re never going to ban fireworks but I don’t see why they can’t only sell silent ones to the public,” she said. “I still think it’s beyond belief that anyone can just go and buy explosives in a shop.”

‘We hope people will think again’: charity releases footage of distressed horses to show impact of fireworks

Eleanor Jones — Wed, 08 Nov 2023 17:17:47 +0000

Redwings Horse Sanctuary has released video of its horses during Bonfire Night celebrations to show the distress fireworks can cause.

The equine welfare charity shared the footage taken on 5 November, of frightened ponies galloping about, as it calls on people to contact their MPs to ask for a review of firework legislation.

Three Redwings ponies have died in recent years as a result of fireworks’ being set off near the charity’s centres.

Redwings CEO Lynn Cutress said: “We are grateful to our neighbours who let us know about firework displays nearby but as you can see from this footage, which clearly shows the distress caused to our horses from firework displays, it isn’t enough.

“We have experienced the worst effects of fireworks here at Redwings, with three of our beloved residents dying in previous years because of large displays near our centres. We take all measures possible to protect our horses, ponies, donkeys and mules, including moving them to other locations, but as all horse owners know, this isn’t always an option.

“With many fireworks displays rearranged due to wet weather we are very concerned that their awful impact on animals is going to be prolonged this year as displays continue through November and beyond, and whilst our horses are so far thankfully ok, we know that other organisations haven’t been so lucky. We hope that by releasing this video people will see how distressing fireworks are for horses, as they are for other animals, and think again about the cost of using them.”

H&H reported that the charity had spent an extra £300 per night on extra staffing and forage to try to protect horses from the effects of fireworks.

“We increase our staffing levels at sites where we don’t have live-in staff over the fireworks season so that we can make more regular checks on our residents, in addition to making lots of other provisions, including putting out additional forage,” Ms Cutress said.

“As a prey species, horses are naturally fearful of loud noises. When they’re stressed and frightened, they can exhibit ‘flight’ behaviours, like galloping to the point of exhaustion or trying to escape their enclosure because they feel unsafe. This can be dangerous for the horse and any people who are near them, including potentially road users if horses become loose.

“The financial cost of the extra measures we take during the fireworks season is not insignificant to a charity like ours, but obviously our residents’ welfare is our top priority.”

Redwings supports the RSPCA’s #BangOutOfOrder campaign and charity staff will be attending a fireworks working group event for MPs at the House of Commons on 6 December.

The charity’s research and policy officer Helen Whitelegg said: “Currently, legislation in England and Wales allows fireworks to be set off legally on private property by any adult between 7am and 11pm every day of the year, except Bonfire Night, when the cut-off is extended until midnight, and New Year’s Eve, Diwali and Chinese New Year, when the cut-off is extended until 1am. It is not a legal requirement to have any form of licence or training to let off consumer fireworks.

“Last year the Scottish Parliament passed the Fireworks and Pyrotechnics Articles (Scotland) Bill which will tighten regulations in the country. The Bill introduces fireworks licensing; they will only be allowed to be supplied to, and used by, members of the public on certain dates around celebration periods. The bill also grants local authorities the powers to set up ‘firework control zones’, though this is a lengthy, complex process requiring a public consultation and at least a 60-day notice period.

New powers to create no firework zones near stables and animal hospitals welcomed

Becky Murray — Wed, 01 Nov 2023 17:31:54 +0000

New laws giving local authorities the power to grant firework control zones in Scotland have been welcomed – and calls have been made for the rest of Britain to follow suit.

H&H has reported on the Scottish Government’s steps towards tightening firework laws, and in June 2022 the Fireworks and Pyrotechnic Articles (Scotland) Bill was passed (news, July 2022).

New powers came into effect in June 2023 which allow councils to grant designated firework control zones. In these, it is an offence for members of the public to use fireworks, including on private property; fireworks can only be used at public displays and for “some limited other purposes”. Those who break the law could face a £5,000 fine and up to six months’ prison.

To grant a zone councils must create a proposal, hold an eight- to 12-week consultation with individuals and organisations that may be affected by the zone, then if granted give at least 60 days’ notice before the zone comes into effect.

Councils are encouraged to notify the Scottish Government of any zones, and the Government told H&H last month it was unaware of any requested or approved zones around equestrian properties so far.

The legislation has been broadly praised among equestrian charities. Redwings research and policy officer Helen Whitelegg said: “Redwings wholeheartedly welcomes the tighter regulations that Scotland has introduced and is calling on Westminster to follow their lead.

“Having experienced first-hand the sometimes tragic outcomes of fireworks being set off close to horses, we know the impact they have on naturally fearful flight animals like horses, alongside broader adverse effects on other animals and people with conditions such as PTSD or autism.

“We hope the rescued equines we care for at Redwings Mountains in Angus will see the benefit of this greater protection from the multiple risks fireworks present.”

Redwings said the cost of extra staffing and forage to help protect horses from the adverse effects of fireworks cost the charity almost £1,500 last year, and that three ponies have died at its centres recently as a result of fireworks being let off nearby. Redwings is urging people to write to their MPs to ask the Government to follow Scotland’s lead.

An SSPCA spokesman told H&H that “when possible” it will apply for control zones near the charity’s rescue centres.

“Each year we see the impact of fireworks after the animals in our care become distressed and many display destructive behaviours due to the stress and fear,” said the spokesman.

“We look forward to the roll-out of this vital legislation to help further safeguard animals and people.”

The British Horse Society (BHS) was in the Scottish fireworks stakeholder group and provided figures that helped inform the legislation, including the fact that there have been 45 firework-related horse fatalities reported to the society since 2010.

“While this new law in Scotland is a significant step forward, there is still more to be done across the rest of the UK to prevent horse injuries and fatalities due to fireworks. The BHS is committed to driving further change and helping with wider education around use of fireworks,” BHS safety team leader Des Payne told H&H.

An RSPCA spokesman told H&H it is “continuing to encourage local authorities across England and Wales to help do what they can to mitigate the risks fireworks pose”, and would like to see changes to firework legislation including a licensing system for sales, and prohibiting use around horses’ habitats.

‘It’s terrible these horses had to die’: fireworks plea is taken to the top

Eleanor Jones — Tue, 24 Jan 2023 17:24:05 +0000

AS the current legislation aimed at protecting animals from harm caused by fireworks is not preventing their deaths, action must be taken.

This is the view of Andrew Selous, the MP for south-west Bedfordshire, where a pony had to be put down as a result of New Year’s Eve fireworks.

Sam Parsons’ 25-year-old gelding Murphy, who should have been enjoying a happy retirement, had to be put down on 1 January. Sam believes from marks in the field that he had gone through electric fencing and into another fence. He was found unable to get up, despite vets’ best efforts.

“There was no coming back from that so he was put to sleep then and there,” Sam told H&H. “It was absolutely horrific.”

Sam is now trying to make as much noise as possible, with the backing of Mr Selous, who arranged an interview with himself and Sam on local BBC radio, and intends to address both the parish council and parliament on the issue.

“He’s been fantastic,” she said. “He was talking about tougher by-laws for rural communities; it was discussed in parliament in 2019 and they were told to go and get more evidence, so I hope this is the time to say ‘This is still happening’. How many horses have to die before something changes?”

Sam added that a 32-year-old pony belonging to a neighbour of hers also ran through a fence in panic on New Year’s Eve, and was injured. Spent firework casings landed on kennels at a dog rehoming facility nearby. H&H also spoke to Joanna Barnett in Sussex, whose much-loved “horse of a lifetime” Tallulah ran through a fence in panic and was found on the road. Despite the best efforts of Joanna and her vet, she had to be put down on New Year’s Day.

“There shouldn’t be fireworks around here, even under current legislation,” Sam said. “But they’re so accessible to buy and there’s no policing; if you say to police ‘This has happened’ they ask who’s let them off but no one knows; there’s no justice and no way to hold someone accountable. The more we can shout about this, the better. Something’s got to give.”

Mr Selous told BBC radio he does not want to ban fireworks entirely.

“I think it’s possible to have them responsibly,” he said. “One has to take the middle ground and back people who are using them responsibly but they’ve got bigger and louder and if they’re causing death or injury to animals we’re charged with caring for, something’s gone very badly wrong, and that means we need to take action. Isn’t it terrible that all these horses have had to die before something gets done about it? I take that as a challenge. We have to protect people like Samantha, and others, from this happening again.”

Government advice is that fireworks “must not be set off near livestock or horses in fields or close to buildings housing livestock”, but Mr Selous said if current legislation is not working, or being enforced, “the very least we need is a huge awareness campaign”. He added that he would bring this up and “challenge Government to think about what needs to be done to make sure we don’t have any more of these very tragic stories”.

Lawyer Joanne Saye, an associate with Ashfords LLP who specialises in equine and rural cases, told H&H the firm has seen a number of cases about horses injured by “third-party stimulus”.

“Fireworks continue to be a particular concern for horse owners,” she said. “Those facilitating or organising fireworks events should be aware of the potential impact their activities might have on neighbouring livestock, including horses. If they negligently set off fireworks, for example without adequate warning or in an inappropriate manner, they could be liable to neighbouring horse owners for losses suffered. In particular where a fireworks display is excessive, unexpected, out of the ordinary and/or prolonged the horse owner might consider a claim against the responsible third party.

“If the incident caused an injury that has materially affected the performance of the horse, or worse, caused the death of the horse, this might be a sufficient incentive for litigation. Depending on the circumstances, there may also be rider/handler injuries to consider, as well as damage to property and vet’s fees. Horse owners should be aware that potential civil litigation recourse exists in such circumstances and should consider speaking to a specialist equine lawyer about their options.”

How many more horses have to die? Heartbreak as pony put down after new year’s fireworks

Eleanor Jones — Fri, 13 Jan 2023 16:30:46 +0000

The owner of a pony who died as a result of New Year’s Eve fireworks that were “like a war zone” has asked how many more deaths there have to be before the law is changed.

Sam Parsons’ 25-year-old gelding Murphy, who should have been enjoying a happy retirement, had to be put down on 1 January.

“He came to me to retire; to have a happy life in his field with my mare, until the time was right, and he did, until New Year’s Eve,” Sam told H&H. “He was the sweetest pony in the world.”

Sam said there are organised fireworks displays in the two villages near her rural home but neither is close enough to cause problems, and warnings of both are given in advance.

“But on New Year’s Eve, we were surrounded by them,” she said. “It’s no exaggeration to say we were surrounded by fireworks. I’ve never seen anything like it, it was like being in a war zone.”

Sam went to check the horses and found Murphy was down.

“You could see by the marks in the mud, he’d been down some time; he’d been trying to get up but couldn’t,” she said. “From the marks in the field and his hair on the fence, he’d gone through the electric fencing and into another fence. He had arthritis and the most he could manage was a slow trot for his dinner so the fact he’d been haring around like that shows how bad it was.”

Efforts to get Murphy to his feet failed, and getting a vet proved equally frustrating.

“It was like he’d just given up; he was exhausted,” Sam said. “All the vets we called said they were inundated, with colics and injured horses for the same reason, and they were all saying it would be a four-hour wait; the fact several of them told us that speaks for itself.”

Eventually, Sam found a vet who could arrive sooner but there was nothing that could be done.

“There was no coming back from that so he was put to sleep then and there,” Sam said. “It was absolutely horrific.”

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Sam is now trying to make as much noise as possible, with the backing of her MP Andrew Selous, who arranged an interview with himself and Sam on local BBC radio, and, Sam said, intends to address both the parish council and parliament on the issue.

“He’s been fantastic,” she said. “He’s going to bring up the number of deaths caused by fireworks, which is relentless, on my behalf and [that of Joanna Barnett, whose Connemara Tallulah also died as a result of fireworks].

“He was talking about tougher by-laws for rural communities; it was discussed in parliament in 2019 and they were told to go and get more evidence, so I hope this is the time to say ‘This is still happening’. How many horses have to die before something changes?”

Sam added that a 32-year-old pony belonging to a neighbour of hers also ran through a fence in panic on New Year’s Eve, and was injured. Spent firework casings landed on kennels at a dog rehoming facility nearby.

“There shouldn’t be fireworks around here, even under current legislation,” she said. “But they’re so accessible to buy and there’s no policing; if you say to police ‘This has happened’ they ask who’s let them off but no one knows; there’s no justice and no way to hold someone accountable. The more we can shout about this, the better. Something’s got to give.”

‘She was lying in the road, broken’: owner’s devastation as horse dies after new year fireworks

Eleanor Jones — Thu, 05 Jan 2023 17:31:13 +0000

The devastated owner of a horse who died after New Year’s Eve fireworks were let off close by said the hope the tragedy will make just one person reconsider their choices is keeping her going.

Joanna Barnett’s much-loved Connemara Tallulah, whom she described as “my rock; my horse of a lifetime”, ran through a fence in blind panic and was found on the road. Despite Joanna’s and vets’ best efforts, she had to be put down on New Year’s Day.

She was 22, and had been with Joanna for 18 years.

“I was fostered and I got her soon after I left care,” Joanna told H&H. “She’d been with me my whole adult life. I’ve spent four days crying, and just want to do anything I can to make people think.

“It would be easy to get bitter and point fingers but nothing good will come from that. All I can do is try to educate people on what the consequences [of fireworks] can be, and make them think – is it really worth it?”

Joanna said she and her husband were lucky to buy a property with land, which needed a huge amount of work and to which Tallulah moved last year. She had never been badly affected by fireworks over the years, Joanna said, adding that even when they were let off frequently in the area around Halloween and Bonfire Night, and again on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day, the mare was calm.

“On New Year’s Eve, they started about 9pm and she was fine then too,” Joanna said. “The weather was terrible; it was teeming it down and windy and I thought there was just no need for fireworks. But she was fine.

“Then, later, I heard from a lovely lady who used to live next door, to say they’d found a grey pony in the road. She said she knew Tallulah was secure but did I know whose it might be. We flew round there, with a headcollar and a bucket of nuts. I was so naive; I thought I’d catch her and walk her home, but what we were greeted with was her lying in the road, broken.”

With the help of an emergency vet and police, Joanna got Tallulah up and home. She was given sedation, painkillers and fluids, as “for a while we were hopeful that she might get through the shock, potential internal injuries and the colic that was caused by her terror”.

Warning: you may find this video upsetting

“I can’t thank the vet enough,” Joanna added. “She was exhausted but we initially thought she might be all right. By about 12pm, I knew she wouldn’t be. You can see it in their eyes, and you know in your heart. She went downhill rapidly and all I could say to the vet was ‘Please get here as quickly as you can, I can’t let her suffer any more’. It was horrific.”

Joanna said she has no interest in pointing fingers or apportioning blame. But, she added, her horse was in pain despite all efforts, and her death was unnecessary.

“I can only hang on to one thing; that something good will come of this,” she said. “I don’t expect to change the world, but I’d like people to think ‘Is it really worth it?’ I won’t ever be able to see fireworks again without seeing her lying there in pain, dripping with sweat, that’s finished for me and my children. But other people can enjoy them, in a safe way.”

Joanna said that although she would like a complete ban on fireworks, she understands that many people enjoy them. She would like to see restrictions on sales, times and locations for setting off fireworks, as is to be the case in Scotland, or alternatives such as noiseless displays or laser shows.

“There are so many options,” she said. “I think backyard fireworks have had their day; people need to move forward and in 10 years’ time, look back and say ‘I can’t believe we used to do that’. I don’t want to start wars but people need to wake up to the realities.”

Joanna has been over what happened in her head repeatedly, she said, and she does not believe she could have done anything differently. Tallulah had always lived out; she was very stressed when Joanna tried to stable her once, her field was secure and she had never previously been bothered by fireworks.

‘If you google ‘Horse death fireworks’, that tells you everything you need to know and I doubt any of those owners could have done anything differently,” she said. “People talk about sedation but you never know when the fireworks are going off; you can’t get the vet out at random, or time it just right before the adrenaline kicks in.

“I didn’t expect her to be terrorised like this but something must have happened that was particularly terrifying; I’m told some of the ones let off later were exceptionally loud.”

“My husband didn’t even cry at our wedding, but he cried on Sunday,” she said.

“Tallulah was my rock, my horse of a lifetime. She’d been with me from leaving care to being married with two children; every time I had a bad day, I could go and give her a hug and talk to her. I got a tracking app and we’d covered 300 miles together recently; what better friend could there be?

“She’d given me so much and she deserved a better end. The only thing I could give her was love at the end but it doesn’t feel enough. I’m lost but something good has to come from this – I have to hang on to that or I wouldn’t be able to move – but if it makes one person think, saves one horse or wild animal, that’s all I can ask.”

Charity and vet organisations join forces to call for change on firework law

Lucy Elder — Sat, 05 Nov 2022 18:51:29 +0000

Leading charities and veterinary organisations have written an open letter urging the Government to review firework legislation.

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) and the Blue Cross are among the 11 bodies that have put their names to the letter, which was sent to the secretary of state for business, energy and industrial strategy.

The letter highlights how easy it is to buy fireworks, the serious animal welfare concerns associated with pyrotechnics and the detrimental impact they can have. Its signatories include Help for Heroes director Beth Miles, Combat Stress chief executive Jeff Harrison, chief executive and founder of PTSD UK Jacqui Suttie, along with representatives of burns charities, The Kennel Club and animal charities.

“Although there have been several Government awareness campaigns around fireworks, there has been no legislative commitment to a review of fireworks and their impact on people and animal welfare,” states the letter.

It references the tightened restrictions in Scotland (news, 14 July) and urges the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy to “follow suit”.

The new Scottish laws mean fireworks can only be supplied to, and used by, members of the public on certain dates, and grant local authorities power to set up firework control zones.

H&H has contacted both the department and the secretary of state, Grant Shapps, for comment.

Becky Thwaites, head of public affairs at national pet charity Blue Cross who has signed the letter, told H&H that easy access to fireworks and poor enforcement of existing legislation means animals “continue to suffer”.

“It is clear that a large number of companion animals of all species find fireworks extremely distressing, and they can have a severe impact on their health and welfare and lead to many animals being injured or even killed,” she said.

“That is why Blue Cross, along with other animal welfare organisations, is calling for the Government to conduct a review of the existing fireworks legislation.

“We would welcome measures such as restrictions on the periods when fireworks can be sold and used for private purposes.

“[We would also welcome] a reduction in the maximum decibel level of fireworks for public sale to 97 decibels, and powers to impose firework-free zones, as in Scotland, particularly around specific locations such as animal shelters, hospitals, and rehoming centres.”

The letter was released in the same week the RSPCA voiced concerns over the knock-on effect cancellations of major displays could have, with worries it could lead to an increase in at-home fireworks.

Fears of ‘prolonged distress’ for horses as major firework displays cancelled

Lucy Elder — Fri, 28 Oct 2022 07:08:09 +0000

The RSPCA fears the cancellation of public firework displays will lead to the distress of “more animals than ever”.

Major displays in Leeds, Manchester, Liverpool and Cardiff are among those cancelled, owing to rising costs.

The charity is concerned that pulling the plug on these major, planned events will lead to an increase in at-home fireworks.

“We fear that there will now be lots of little displays taking place over weeks and weeks, spreading out noise and causing prolonged distress for animals across a larger area,” said RSPCA campaigns manager Carrie Stones.

“We’d urge people to be considerate and keep neighbours with animals, including those with nearby horses or other livestock, informed of plans well in advance so they can make preparations to reduce the stress to their animals.

“Equally lower-noise fireworks can make such a difference to make displays safer for everybody.

“Put simply, please keep animals in mind if you are planning your own display and check out our advice on our website.”

Precautions taken by organisers of planned events, including notifying animal owners in advance, mitigate risks. The charity is urging anyone planning DIY displays to consider animals in their area.

The RSPCA is lobbying the Government for tighter controls and regulations around the sale and use of fireworks, and urging local authorities to introduce localised restrictions.

‘Ground-breaking’ firework legislation to become law as Scotland leads the way

Becky Murray — Thu, 07 Jul 2022 16:09:35 +0000

“Ground-breaking” firework legislation that includes the introduction of a mandatory licensing system has been passed by the Scottish Government, but further work is still needed before changes come in.

In December H&H reported on the findings from a public consultation launched by the Scottish Government to gain the views on proposed amendments to firework laws. The results showed 84% of 1,739 respondents backed the introduction of a licensing system, 92% agreed with creating a new offence to criminalise the supply of fireworks to under-18s, and 83% agreed with creating no-firework zones, suggestions for which included areas around livery yards, riding schools, and vet hospitals. Other proposals included restricting the days fireworks could be bought and used by members of the public.

The Scottish Government pledged to introduce new firework legislation at the “earliest opportunity”, and on 29 June the Fireworks and Pyrotechnic Articles (Scotland) Bill was passed following a debate at the Scottish Parliament. The bill will become law once it receives royal assent.

Community safety minister Ash Regan, who has led the work on the bill, said the “ground-breaking” new legislation will “improve the lives of people across Scotland”.

“This is not a ban on fireworks. We still want people to enjoy them safely, for example attending organised displays,” she said.

“But this vitally important step will make firework use more predictable and safer. The bill will ensure appropriate action can be taken over the dangerous or disruptive use of fireworks, as well as reducing the misuse of pyrotechnic devices such as flares.

“It also demonstrates our absolute commitment to further improve safety for communities across Scotland.”

The SSPCA welcomed the bill and said its passing will help “tackle the impact” private firework use in particular, can have.

But although the bill is positive news, the Scottish Government does not “anticipate” some of the changes coming into force for some time. The restriction on the days fireworks can be sold is not expected to apply until 2023, to allow “fair and sufficient time” for businesses to adapt their processes, and new regulations will be needed to provide for “any compensation” that might be made available for businesses that are wholly, or mainly, concerned with the supply, distribution or important of fireworks in Scotland.

The licensing system and no-firework zones are not due to come into force until “later in 2023” at the earliest, as further legislation and/or guidance is needed and this will need to be “scrutinised” by the Scottish Parliament.

‘Milestone’ moment as fireworks petition reaches one million signatures

Becky Murray — Fri, 04 Feb 2022 14:25:02 +0000

A petition calling for a review of fireworks rules has reached a landmark one million signatures – as new firework laws in Scotland take a step forward.

The Firework Campaign’s change.org petition, launched three years ago by Julie Doorne, calls for an urgent review of firework regulations to “further restrict their use, as a step to preventing needless animal suffering”. The petition hit a million signatures shortly before midnight on Tuesday (1 February), the day of Chinese New Year when fireworks may be set off until 1am under UK law.

On the same day, the Fireworks and Pyrotechnic Articles (Scotland) Bill was introduced in the Scottish Parliament. The bill, if approved, will make it an offence to buy fireworks without a licence and make it an offence to let off fireworks in “firework control zones”, designated by local authorities. A bill taken to Scottish Parliament will be debated, voted on and may be amended. Parliament then decides if it should be passed.

Julie told H&H reaching a million signatures on the petition felt like a “milestone”.

“We were watching the signatures go up and up as it got closer to midnight,” she said.

“Not many petitions reach a million unless they’ve been talked about on the news so we are really pleased. Some people might say it took us ages to get to this point, but it doesn’t matter how long it took, we got there – and people are still signing it.”

Julie will present the petition to 10 Downing Street in the coming weeks, and following this will request a meeting with Paul Scully, Parliamentary under-secretary for the department for business, energy and industrial strategy, to discuss firework issues.

“I can take six people to Number 10 so I will be reaching out to MPs and the petitions committee, who have always been very supportive, and I hope to take an RSPCA representative. I am going to include a data stick with all the comments from people who have signed the petition and shared their story,” she said.

“I’d really like to see something big happen now, like a national review or for the Government to admit that there is a problem and the current law is not working.”

The petition will remain open for signatures and Julie has emphasised the importance of continuing to report firework concerns to the British Horse Society (BHS), RSPCA and the police. The petition can be signed here.

“We recently ran a survey and of 320 responses, 83.8% said they hadn’t reported firework issues involving their pets to anyone,” said Julie.

“An animal doesn’t have to be injured by a firework to report it, it’s just as important reporting if they are distressed. The RSPCA and BHS are actively asking for this information and we absolutely need people to be reporting it.”

An RSPCA spokesman said the “incredible response” to Julie’s petition goes to show “the strength of public feeling” about what are often unlicensed and random firework displays that give animal owners no time to prepare.

“We hope this opens up public debate and leads to restrictions in the private use of fireworks, saving hundreds of animals from distress each year,” he said.

“The RSPCA has long called for regulatory changes in the way we use fireworks through our Bang Out of Order campaign. Last year we set up an online reporting tool for people to use whose animals had been affected by fireworks and we reached more than 11,000 reports. Sadly many reports to us involve terrified dogs, cats and horses – with some ending up seriously injured or dying in incidents involving fireworks.”

Almost a million people call for change to firework law – add your voice by signing petition today

Becky Murray — Sat, 22 Jan 2022 21:03:24 +0000

A petition calling for a review of firework rules is edging closer to a million signatures.

The change.org petition, launched by Julie Doorne of the Firework Campaign, calls for an urgent review of firework regulations to “further restrict their use, as a step to preventing needless animal suffering”. The petition had been signed by 995,547 signatures by yesterday (21 January). Sign the petition here.

Julie told H&H when the petition reaches a million signatures, she plans to present it to No 10 Downing Street.

“The RSPCA has said it will send someone with me and I hope to get a couple of MPs to attend too. Following this I plan to make an appointment with Paul Scully, the Parliamentary under-secretary for the department for business, energy and industrial strategy, to discuss the petition,” she said.

“The petition isn’t about demanding anything, and we’re not saying you have to have low-decibel fireworks. But we are saying the rules need to be reviewed and we would like to see restrictions on private use, a reduction in decibels, mandatory licensing, and packaging to include noise level, considered.”

Julie has successfully brought a number of Government firework petitions to be debated in Parliament, the last in November 2021. The debate generated support from MPs with many agreeing the topic of firework legislation will not go away.

Although Change.org petitions do not generate a Government debate if signed by a certain number of people, as those on the Government website do, Julie hopes the number of signatures will demonstrate how many people want to see a change.

“The key thing is to keep signing the petition, we would like to reach even more than a million signatures. It’s taken a while to get to where we are but we still have support growing,” she said.

‘He died in terror and agony, and for what?’: pony put down following fireworks display

Becky Murray — Thu, 06 Jan 2022 14:55:08 +0000

The owner of a pony who died in “terror and agony” at New Year after fireworks were let off by a neighbouring property, is calling for tougher legislation.

Claire Buchanan was woken at midnight by the sound of fireworks coming from the cottage that borders her property, which had been rented out for Hogmanay.

“The sky was lit up and it wasn’t just one or two small fireworks, they were relentless. Five or six were going off at once and they sounded like the big industrial ones. I could see my horses in the field cantering around and I ran down to the cottage and asked the people to stop. A man said they would but he didn’t seem bothered, it was like I was inconveniencing them,” Claire told H&H.

“When I got back I checked my 21-year-old gelding Tango and my donkeys Claudia and Zeus, who are stabled overnight. Tango was really agitated and spinning around. He eventually calmed down, but when I went back to check on him he had started to sweat. I took him out to walk him but he started spinning around in terror again.”

Claire said Tango’s condition deteriorated, and the gelding went down and started kicking at his stomach. Claire’s vet attended but nothing could be done to save Tango, and the gelding was put down owing to colic.

“The vet said it was the kindest option,” she said. “That first firework going off had sealed his fate.”

Claire phoned the owner of the property, who told her he would contact the guests staying in the cottage and tell them about Tango’s death, but no one came to apologise to Claire.

“An apology would have gone a long way – it’s got nothing to do with the vet bill, it’s about accountability. There is no way the guests didn’t know there were horses and livestock – they’re not hidden away. The upstairs of the cottage looks directly on to my field. The people arrived before New Year’s Eve and if they had told me beforehand, I could have done something,” she said.

“The owner has said going forward he will put something in the welcome pack for guests asking them not to set off fireworks but how many people will read it? Every time I see a car arrive, am I going to need to go and ask people not to let off fireworks?”

Claire reported the incident to the police but was told nothing could be done. She also reported it to the SSPCA, and was told that because she had not filmed the fireworks or Tango, no action could be taken.

“The SSPCA spoke to my vet who confirmed Tango died from colic, but because the vet wasn’t there when the fireworks went off it isn’t proof,” said Claire, who also logged the incident with the British Horse Society.

“The SSPCA said I should put some posters up saying there are horses here. So the onus falls on the horse owner that’s done nothing wrong to do something to prevent people letting off fireworks by their horses,” said Claire.

Claire has contacted her MSP and has started a petition calling for tougher legislation on private firework displays. She would like the sale of fireworks to the public banned, and for the legal requirements that govern public displays to apply to private. Sign the petition here.

“These things are killing animals, it’s as simple as that. Tango died in terror and in agony, and for what? It beggars belief. There is no help for anyone going through this. I hope if we can push the issue through the Scottish parliament, then changes can be made.”

The Animal Welfare Act states it is an offence to cause “any unnecessary suffering to a captive or domestic animal” but a Police Scotland spokesman told H&H the Act does not apply in this case, and no crime has been committed. The spokesman added that there is “nothing in law” that prevents setting off fireworks in neighbouring properties to horses and livestock.

An SSPCA spokesman told H&H it is legal to set off fireworks at any time between 6pm and 1am on New Year’s Eve but the charity urges anyone doing so to think about the people and animals who may be around them.

In December H&H reported the findings of a Scottish Government fireworks consultation regarding proposals to introduce tougher legislation, including no-firework zones and mandatory conditions at the point of sale of fireworks. The Scottish Government has pledged to take forward the Fireworks and Pyrotechnics Bill, at the “earliest opportunity”.

No-firework zones around livery yards and riding schools suggested in Scotland

Becky Murray — Sun, 12 Dec 2021 19:03:20 +0000

No-firework zones around livery yards and riding schools are among the suggestions to come out of a public consultation on fireworks in Scotland, as the Government looks to introduce new legislation “at the earliest opportunity”.

In June the Scottish Government launched a consultation to gain views on proposed amendments to firework laws. The proposals included mandatory conditions at the point of sale of fireworks, no-firework zones and making it an offence to carry pyrotechnics such as flares or smoke devices in a public place (news 3 June).

The consultation had 1,739 responses and findings released this month include the fact 84% backed introducing a licensing system, 92% agreed with creating a new offence to criminalise the supply of fireworks to under-18s, and 83% agreed with creating no-firework zones, suggestions for which included areas around livery yards, riding schools and vet hospitals. Proposals also include restricting the days fireworks can be used by the public to; 29 October to 12 November, 26 to 31 December, the first day of Chinese New Year and Diwali and the weeks following them.

Scottish Government community safety minister Ash Regan said the consultation builds on significant engagement and evidence gathering and demonstrated the range of views among those who responded.

“I am committed to making our communities safer and we have already moved quickly to introduce regulations restricting the times of day and the volume of fireworks that can be supplied to the public — as well as the times fireworks can be set off,” she said.

“We are intent on further improving safety for communities across Scotland by taking forward the Fireworks and Pyrotechnics Bill at the earliest opportunity to ensure appropriate action is taken over the sale and use of fireworks and to reduce the misuse of pyrotechnic devices such as flares.”

World Horse Welfare chief executive Roly Owers told H&H the consultation “clearly demonstrates” there is public support for making fireworks safer for all.

“We are heartened that the majority of those who responded agreed on the need for licensing the possession and use of fireworks, and for this licence to require completion of an online safety course which would cover the impact on animals. We are also pleased to see support for set dates when the public can use fireworks – although we think the proposed window is too wide, particularly around Bonfire Night,” he said

“There is also clear support for no-firework zones which would be best led by local authorities who understand their areas, and it is essential that they be given the appropriate resources and training to fulfil this role.

“We welcome the community safety minister’s commitment to take forward the Bill and strongly encourage the English and Welsh Governments to seriously consider similar actions.”

The SSPCA was part of Scotland’s independent fireworks review group and a spokesman for the charity told H&H the organisation is encouraged by the public support in the consultation and will continue to work with the Scottish Government.

‘This can’t go on’: pony found with broken neck after rockets let off on site

Eleanor Jones — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 17:19:57 +0000

The owner of a pony who was found with a broken neck after rockets were let off nearby says people need to keep campaigning for a change in the law.

Julie Burnet’s 14-year-old Exmoor mare Knightoncombe Ghost Swift was found dead early on Sunday, 7 November. An empty TNT rocket box and a lighter were found on the site.

Juliet told H&H she went to her five-strong herd’s conservation grazing site, Danebury Hill Fort near Andover, at about 7am as usual that day.

“When I went through the gate, I saw the box and the lighter, and knew straight away what was going on,” she said. “I lifted my head and saw four ponies, and I knew the significance of that because they always stuck together like glue. I knew then that I’d lost her.”

Swift was found with her neck broken.

“Whether she’d run into a tree or fallen, I don’t know,” Juliet said. “I just hope it was instant and that she didn’t suffer, but it was absolutely awful.

“There were footmarks where they’d all been running around terrified, and the other ponies were covered in dried sweat, as they had been the day before, so they’d had two nights of it.”

Juliet reported the incident to police, who took the fireworks box and lighter for forensic testing.

“But they didn’t seem that hopeful,” she said. “They also said whoever it was had done nothing illegal but the law says fireworks must not be let off near livestock so I beg to differ.”

The day after Swift was found, parliament debated the fifth petition calling for a change to fireworks law since 2016, but the Government said there will be no change. Another petition launched since the debate, calling for the sale of fireworks to be restricted to organisers of public displays, has been signed by almost 34,000 people.

Juliet agrees this would be a solution.

“You’ve got to compromise, and I understand some people enjoy fireworks,” she said. “What I don’t understand is that anyone can just set off explosives, which is what they are these days. An 18-year-old, who’s a child, can just buy them, even if they’ve got a criminal record, and that’s disgraceful, but the Government just won’t listen.”

Juliet says she believes the “tide is slowly turning”; some supermarkets have stopped selling fireworks and she believes others will gradually follow suit.

“It’s not just animals who die and suffer; there’s nothing fun about frightening vulnerable people,” she said. “There’s the damage to the environment too, and it’s not just Bonfire Night, it’s a month, and people don’t tell you they’re letting them off. When will it give?”

Juliet believes children should be educated more about issues related to fireworks; she got to the school where she works the day after she found Swift, to find displays of fireworks pictures on the walls. After she spoke to the head teacher, these were taken down.

“Swift was the youngest of my herd; I’d had her 10 years and she was such a lovely mare,” she said. “I’ve not really been able to talk about it because I was so upset, and so angry.

“She was a breeding Exmoor mare; we can’t afford to lose ponies like that, and she was doing a job, and happy. We keep ponies for life, we never sell them, and it’s the way she died that was so shocking.

“The loss of this pony seems to have affected people; I’ve had a lot of messages, but it needs to hit home, it really does, and people need to keep signing petitions and contacting their MPs. This can’t go on.”

What do you think should be done about fireworks? Send your thoughts to hhletters@futurenet.com, including your name, nearest town and county, and you could win a bottle of Champagne Taittinger

The people have spoken: calls to fight on after MPs’ firework debate

Becky Murray — Sat, 13 Nov 2021 19:03:44 +0000

The latest parliament debate on fireworks was “progress”, despite the fact the Government has no plans to introduce tougher legislation – but the “will of the people” cannot be ignored much longer.

On 8 November, MP Elliot Colburn led the debate of the 2020 petition, calling for the sale and use of fireworks to be limited to organisers of licensed displays, which was signed by 301,610 people. This is the fifth parliament debate on a fireworks petition since 2016.

Mr Colburn referenced a public survey he ran before the debate which had 75,000 responses, 89% supporting a ban on fireworks other than for organised events. Of the MPs who took part in the debate, none opposed the petition and there were calls for a change to legislation, but the Government maintained its position that an “outright ban on fireworks, or on their sale to the public, is not the appropriate course of action”.

Paul Scully, parliamentary under-secretary of state for business, energy and industrial strategy, said he was “sorry to hear” how some people and animals had been affected by fireworks – and that the Government is “committed to promoting the safe and considerate use of fireworks”. Last October (news, 5 November 2020), the Office for Product Safety and Standards commissioned a programme to determine noise levels of common fireworks sold for public use – but during the debate, Mr Scully “freely admitted” the report had not been published as the work was delayed owing to Covid.

Mr Scully referred to the petitions committee’s 2019 fireworks inquiry, which concluded that introducing further restrictions on fireworks was “not the appropriate course of action, due to unintended consequences” – and said the Government agrees.

“The Government believes the most balanced course of action is to continue to pursue non-legislative measures on fireworks to complement existing legislation,” he said, adding that the Government is aware of Scotland’s new regulations, restricting the times of day and the volume of fireworks that can be sold to the public, and times fireworks can be set off. It is also aware of a proposed Scottish Bill, including requiring the public to meet conditions before they can buy fireworks, and he is interested to see “how it pans out”.

Mr Colburn, who sits on the petitions committee, told H&H Mr Scully’s response was “basically saying, we’re not changing the law”; rather the Government wants to ramp up awareness campaigns and work with charities and councils towards guidelines for responsible firework use.

He added that the Government response was “expected” owing to the 2019 inquiry, but it was “clear and evident” the topic will not go away.

“There is no doubt in my mind we will be debating this again next year. As a member of the petitions committee, because it’s one of those campaigns that keeps coming back, I feel a certain sense of responsibility to try to ensure that it does get the attention it deserves,” he said.

“The point of the petition system was to give the public a voice in parliament. It wasn’t created to force the Government to do what a petitioner says, but once something has had as much interest as this, you have to ask, ‘Why does this keep coming back?’ There’s clearly a big concern here, and we need to see what we can do to address it. Otherwise, I think people will lose faith in the system.”

Mr Colburn said his “key message” is to keep campaigning.

“If the issue falls off the radar, it won’t get looked at. The sustained pressure on MPs being contacted by their constituents – and therefore putting pressure on the Government – and also through the petition system, generates this sense of ‘This cannot be ignored,’” he said.

Campaigner Julie Doorne, who created the petition, told H&H the number of MPs who spoke in its favour, and the points raised about the different individuals and animals affected by fireworks, was positive. A new petition, Make fireworks illegal to buy, with the exception of public displays, has been launched in the hope of a debate in Parliament in 2022. It had been signed by more than 30,000 people as H&H went to press.

“You could see how frustrated the MPs were getting [during the debate] and if they’re frustrated, like we are, they’re going to push for change – and that’s what we need,” she said.

“I think people will be disappointed by the response but they shouldn’t be disheartened. We’ve got to keep the pressure up and keep knocking on the door. The Government can’t keep ignoring the will of the people.”

Since launching an online reporting survey as part of the Bang out of Order reporting campaign in October, the RSPCA has received 663 firework-related incident reports from horse owners.

“While it’s disappointing there are no current plans to bring in any new legislation, we will continue with our awareness campaign to support concerned animal owners who contact us every year,” an RSPCA spokesman told H&H.

‘Traditions need to change’: pony killed by car after trying to escape fireworks

Becky Murray — Thu, 11 Nov 2021 21:03:27 +0000

The owner of a pony who died when he was struck by a car after he jumped out of his field while trying to flee from nearby fireworks has said “traditions need to change”.

Claire Willard’s 18-month New Forest colt Archer jumped a five-bar gate out of his field in Marchwood, Hampshire, on 4 November. When more fireworks went off Archer ran onto the road into the path of a car and was killed.

Claire told H&H she received a telephone call from Sarah Mills, Archer’s breeder and owner of his fieldmate Harry, shortly before 10pm to tell her Archer had died.

“Sarah lives round the corner from the field and saw on a local Facebook group that a pony had escaped while fireworks were going off so she went to check the ponies. A motorist had seen Archer standing by the gate so stopped and put his hazard lights on to try and warn others while he tried to find out who owned him,” she said.

“He told Sarah that while he was in his car Archer spooked again as more fireworks went off and he ran onto the road and was hit head first by an oncoming vehicle. We think he died instantly.”

**Warning: very upsetting image**

“I wouldn’t usually take pictures or post something like that but I wanted people to see the aftermath of what can happen when fireworks are let off near livestock. Archer was only 12.2hh, he was in a five acre field, and was still scared enough to jump a five-bar gate,” she said.

“Sarah and I are both devastated. I had known Archer since he was foal and bought him from Sarah earlier this year. The plan was he’d spend the winter with Harry then come to join my other ponies in the spring.”

“I’ve had so many messages of condolences, but also messages from people saying they never thought fireworks could have an impact like this so the post has got people thinking,” said Claire.

“If people are so determined to see fireworks then they should go to an organised display and have some common sense around animals. I know fireworks are seen as a tradition, but in this day and age sometimes traditions need to change.”

Firework incidents involving horses up as charities call for law change

Becky Murray — Thu, 04 Nov 2021 21:01:46 +0000

More firework-related incidents were reported to the British Horse Society last year than in 2019, as welfare charities call for a change in the law.

Concerns were raised last year that owing to the pandemic and public displays being cancelled, more people would hold displays at home. BHS statistics show that 193 firework-related incidents were reported last year, compared to 117 in 2019. 56 incidents have been reported so far in 2021. Since 2015, 22 horses have died and 197 have been injured in firework-related incidents.

“With only one in 10 incidents estimated to be reported, these numbers could be much higher,” said BHS director of safety Alan Hiscox.

“We are urging equestrians to report any incidents involving fireworks, regardless of severity, using the BHS Horse i app. Reporting helps us to better understand the rate of incidents.”

Mr Hiscox added that the society urges anyone planning to set off fireworks to attend a display instead. He said for horse owners it is important to be aware of displays nearby and to let organisers know the location of horses.

“You can inform them of the challenges horses and other animals face and ask if there are any extra precautions they can take to ensure the animals’ safety, such as low-noise fireworks,” he said.

In Scotland new laws came into force in June restricting the times of day fireworks can be bought and let off, and the volume that can be sold to the public. The Scottish Government also held a consultation this summer on proposed further legislation including conditions at point of sale and no-firework zones (news, 28 June). As H&H went to press the results of the consultation had not been published.

World Horse Welfare chief executive Roly Owers told H&H Scotland is “leading the way”.

“We believe it is possible to enjoy celebrating with fireworks when displays are licensed, and controls set. World Horse Welfare, alongside other animal welfare charities, is calling for a nationwide change in legislation, as the current laws across Great Britain do not do enough to protect our animals, including equines,” he said.

“We urge that England and Wales follow suit with these controls [proposed by the Scottish Government] to ensure that firework displays are well organised, well controlled and animals are kept out of danger.”

According to RSPCA figures, 55% of horses in the UK show signs of anxiety when they hear fireworks and this year the RSPCA launched a #BangOutofOrder incident-reporting survey to map incidents so the charity can gain a better understanding of how it can help.

“I ask owners to please report incidents to this site and to BHS as well,” said RSPCA equine welfare expert Mark Kennedy. “We have also written to councils across the country to provide a toolkit to raise awareness of animal welfare during this time of year.”

Licences for buying fireworks could be on the cards for Scotland

Becky Murray — Mon, 28 Jun 2021 06:03:06 +0000

Animal owners are among those being asked for their views on proposed new legislation that could require members of the public to apply for a licence, complete an online safety course and pay a fee before buying fireworks in Scotland.

Last week the Scottish Government launched a new consultation to gain views on a number of proposed amendments to laws on buying fireworks in Scotland. The proposals are: the introduction of mandatory conditions at the point of sale of fireworks, no-firework zones, making it an offence to carry pyrotechnics such as flares or smoke devices in a public place, and granting the police powers to stop and search anyone suspected of carrying pyrotechnics.

If successful, the point-of-sale conditions could include a system requiring adults aged 18 and over to apply for a licence before they can buy fireworks. This would include members of community organisations and groups organising a public display. Applicants would be required to complete an online safety course and pay a fee to obtain the licence – and must disclose any unspent convictions for fireworks-related offences. Consideration is also being given to whether a licence should be required for the possession and use of fireworks.

“We are keen to get practical feedback on the introduction of legislation from those who use and enjoy fireworks as well as those affected by fireworks including vulnerable groups, animal owners, and from local authorities, enforcement agencies, the fireworks industry, retailers and other organisations that have a role or interest in fireworks,” said a Scottish government spokesman.

In 2019 the Scottish government took action after a public survey found 92% of more than 16,000 respondents felt there should be more control on how fireworks can be used. Scottish minister for community safety Ash Denham appointed a firework review group, made up of key organisations including the SSPCA, Police Scotland and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, to consider options for legislative and regulatory change.

The review group issued a series of recommendations in December 2020 relating to how fireworks are sold and used by the general public in Scotland. In February this year new legislation was introduced in the Scottish parliament by Ms Denham restricting the times of day and the volume of fireworks that can be sold to the general public and restricting the times fireworks can be set off.

“I am delighted to report that as a result of these regulations, we will now see a shift in how fireworks are bought and used in our community in time for this year’s fireworks period,” said Ms Denham.

A series of online consultation events is being held in June, July and August to enable stakeholders, individuals and communities to share their views on the new proposed measures.

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Horse to lose eye after fireworks incident

More than £13,400 has been raised by well-wishers towards the gelding’s vet fees, of which the remainder will be split

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Government committee to explore changes in firework law

The group will consider how the current legislation around fireworks can be tightened

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“These events will provide opportunities for people to come together to discuss the proposed changes in more detail and to identify and discuss the practical implications of each,” said the Scottish government spokesman.

“A summary report will be produced from each event for the Scottish Government to consider alongside the official consultation responses.”

The consultation closes on 15 August. Take part in the consultation here.

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

Charities unite to urge Government to act on welfare — but concerns about Hunting Act point H&H Plus

Eleanor Jones — Fri, 14 May 2021 16:56:02 +0000

The group of leading welfare charities has created a report including 40 recommendations to benefit animal welfare. H&H finds out more, including views on a recommendation to strengthen the Hunting Act

FURTHER restrictions on firework use, licensing of sanctuaries and regulation of equestrian premises are among recommendations of a coalition urging the Government to act on animal welfare.

In an “unprecedented” move, 50 welfare charities have united in calls for lawmakers not to waste a “once-in-a-generation opportunity to redefine our relationship with animals through a new animal health and welfare strategy”.

The group, which includes the Horse Trust, World Horse Welfare and Redwings, has published a report entitled Act now for Animals, which sets out its priorities for creating a society that “rebalances” the way we live and work with animals.

The paper, which states “no animal left behind”, sets out 40 recommendations. The hope is that it will help the Government create a new animal welfare strategy; the last such plan is 17 years old and the landscape has changed significantly in that time, bringing “new and urgent challenges”.

A key recommendation is that the new Government animal sentience committee must have “real teeth”, be independently chaired, comprise leading welfare experts and have the ability to “meaningfully hold ministers to account”.

Brooke Action for Working Horses and Donkeys CEO Chris Wainwright said: “We all have a role to play in how we live alongside and create a better life for animals.

“It is absolutely vital that all animals are recognised as sentient beings, and that a rigorous approach to improving animal health and welfare is recognised not just for its benefit to them, but also for its connection to human health.”

Another recommendation is to ensure equine identification is “enforced effectively for the first time in 12 years”, by introducing a statutory obligation to enforce rules, requiring registration of equine premises and making both owner and keeper of a horse responsible for keeping the Government’s digital equine database up to date.

World Horse Welfare CEO Roly Owers said: “We are fast entering the last chance saloon to create a frictionless, digitised system for equine identification, something we have been highlighting for nearly a decade. This is a fundamental requirement for all other equine welfare legislation to work and we now finally have the opportunity to make this happen, if Government shows the political will.

“An effective equine ID system is also inextricably linked to the other vital piece of the jigsaw: effective enforcement, and this too will need the political will to ensure a realistic allocation of resources for local authorities to fulfil this role.”

The report highlights the fact National Equine Welfare Council members took in 186 equids from struggling sanctuaries or rescue centres in 2019, and that almost one in five equine vets dealt with firework-related injuries to a horse in 2018. Two recommendations are to introduce licensing and inspections of all sanctuaries in England and Wales, and to review fireworks legislation and fireworks’ impact on animal welfare, with a view to introducing further restrictions on use and sale.

Horse Trust CEO Jeanette Allen said: “There is no doubt we are stronger with one voice and this incredible collaborative effort could affect very real change to Government policy and future legislation that protects animals. The Horse Trust is very proud to have taken part and contributed our expertise.”

The report also recommends banning live export of horses for slaughter or fattening, and introducing a 12-hour journey limit for horses.

The final recommendation is for the Government to ensure that enforcement is a statutory obligation in any new laws, as “legislation is a glorified and costly piece of paper without enforcement, and a wasted piece of paper if it doesn’t deliver its objectives”.

Hunting concerns

CONCERNS have been raised about one section of the report put to the Government (see above).

One of the 50 groups involved in the coalition is the League Against Cruel Sports (LACS) – and one recommendation is headed “strengthening the Hunting Act”.

The section states that trail hunting “provides cover for illegal hunting” and that “fox hunting is opposed by 85% of the public”, referring to a LACS-commissioned poll of 2,003 people.

The report says trail-hunting should be banned on Government-owned land, and an offence of recklessly hunting a wild animal should be introduced, with prison sentences and a liability provision to cover employers and landowners.

A Countryside Alliance spokesman told H&H: “LACS has spent the last 18 years making ridiculous claims about hunting, yet nearly every time it makes allegations to the police or a court, they are found to be false. There have been hundreds of thousands of days’ legal trail hunting since the Hunting Act came into force and only a handful of convictions relating to registered hunts.

“The figures presented by LACS cannot be taken at face value since they were compiled from LACS’ own ‘animal crimewatch service’, which often consists of dubious reports from alleged members of the public, as well as spurious evidence gathered from social media. Time and time again, this evidence is proven to paint a false picture of reality and lacks any appropriate context.”

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New safety app allows riders to report incidents ‘quickly and easily’

Becky Murray — Tue, 09 Mar 2021 07:03:22 +0000

A new safety app aimed at “empowering” riders and encouraging more incident reporting has been launched.

The British Horse Society’s (BHS) “Horse i” app will enable riders to “quickly and easily” submit details of incidents that have negatively affected their safety.

A BHS spokesman said the free app had been specifically designed to “empower” equestrians to immediately report any incidents they encounter directly to the society via a simple, easy to use interface.

“An incident is classed as an unplanned event that has resulted in a human or horse feeling unsafe, for example road rage, or that has the potential to cause injury (a near-miss), or that has already caused injury,” said the spokesman.

Riders can report any problems with a road or off-road user, slippery road surfaces, dogs, low-flying aircraft, nuisance drones or fireworks. The app records the incident details including location, date and time, injuries, vet treatment, and whether agencies such as the police or civil aviation authority are involved.

“An incident report can be submitted via the time-saving new tool in less than three minutes, although there is also the facility for the user to add in any supporting detail if they wish,” said the spokesman.

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The spokesman added that the society hopes the app will “equip and encourage” more equestrians to report incidents, enabling the BHS to use the data to support campaigns and improve equestrian safety.

“We know that only one in 10 people report incidents to us which is why we have produced this app. Most people want to report an incident to the BHS as soon as it happens, so this app makes it much easier to log what’s happened to you and your horse the moment you return to the yard when the detail is still fresh in your mind,” said BHS director of safety Alan Hiscox.

“Increasing the number of incidents that are logged with the BHS is a key priority for us in order to create a safer environment for equestrians, as we can act more effectively with better data.”

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

Revellers urged to ditch New Year’s Eve fireworks as survey reveals extent of equine suffering

Eleanor Jones — Thu, 31 Dec 2020 11:08:36 +0000

Blue Cross is urging people to ditch fireworks this New Year’s Eve, as the extent of equine suffering is revealed.

The animal charity surveyed horse owners early this month, and found great concern about the impact fireworks have, and the difficulty in predicting when they may be let off as owners try to plan ahead.

They found 73% of respondents prepared their horses for fireworks, with 51% making plans with their yards. Action taken included bringing horses in early, playing music and trying to distract horses with food, while some used prescribed medication or herbal remedies.

But 35% of respondents reported accidents as a direct result of fireworks, which included a pony who broke her neck and a horse who sustained a serious leg injury. Both had to be put down, and another pony died of a heart attack.

Almost 70% of owners said they were extremely worried about the horses’ welfare. It was reported in the survey that 71% of horses had shown fear of fireworks in the past, and 49% had become difficult to handle as a result.

A Blue Cross spokesman said: “As a difficult year for everyone comes to a close, it is understandable the British public will be wanting to celebrate new hope for 2021 this winter and, for some, that might include letting off fireworks in their garden, or private fields.

“But we are asking people to think about horses and pets this New Year’s Eve and resist the temptation to use loud fireworks, which we know terrify many of the animals we share our lives with.”

More than 70% of respondents to the survey believe fireworks should be banned in the UK, apart from at organised events, while 43% of people had noticed an increase in garden fireworks this year.

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Blue Cross education officer Gemma Taylor, said: “These results have laid bare the extent of suffering so many of the nation’s horses go through for days and weeks at a time every single year.

“That’s why we are pleading with people to think about their own actions this New Year’s Eve and consider ditching setting off loud fireworks, which leave many horses literally shaking in fear, for other celebrations.

“We know at Blue Cross just how upsetting this time of year can be for animals – especially now we are seeing more and more people doing their own fireworks in their back gardens and private fields. Let’s all do our bit to help make this fear a thing of the past.”

The charity is asking the public to spread the word and display posters, which can be downloaded from the Blue Cross website, in their windows or local community boards, encouraging people not to use fireworks this winter.

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

This has to stop: rallying call to owners over fireworks menace H&H Plus

Eleanor Jones — Mon, 28 Dec 2020 11:08:57 +0000

Every year, H&H reports on incident after incident of horses’ and owners’ lives devastated by the impact of fireworks. With New Year’s Eve approaching, we find out how you can help make a difference

A RALLYING call has gone out to horse owners to help bring an end to the misery caused by fireworks.

As Britain prepares to welcome a new year tonight (31 December), there is no doubt fireworks will be let off. There is also little doubt that the result, once again, will be horses, animals and people terrified, injured or worse.

But change is coming about, Julie Doorne of the FAB firework abatement campaign believes.

A Government petition will be debated in parliament next year; this will be the fifth time one of her group’s petitions has been debated, having been signed by more than 100,000 people.

The most recent, calling for the sale of fireworks to be limited to organisers of licensed displays, has almost 280,000 signatures.

“There’s obviously a problem,” Julie said. “People might think nothing happens from signing the petitions but it does. The

Scottish Government has made changes, the Office for Product Safety and Standards has started a safety campaign, and is collecting data. That’s down to the campaign; they weren’t doing it before.”

In Scotland, restrictive rules will be introduced for parliament to consider in the new year.

And while signing petitions has undoubtedly helped make these changes, Julie said, there is far more people can do.

She urged people to ask MPs to support an “early day motion” on fireworks, proposed by MP Sarah Owen; the motions are a way of bringing parliament attention to issues, and this one is calling for a review on firework law.

“Complaining on Facebook won’t achieve anything, and signing a petition is good but not enough,” she said. “People have to write to their MPs, and keep doing it; I write to mine every week.

“Then, when you get the standard reply, write back to say you know about the law, but the law isn’t working.

“Report incidents to the British Horse Society and RSPCA even though they can’t do anything at the time, as their data goes to the Government. Report to councils and police; you can usually do this online under antisocial behaviour, then you get an incident number, and it will definitely be recorded.

“The Government say they understand there’s a problem. They don’t understand the size of the issue because there’s nowhere to report legal firework use.”

Keep at it

“PEOPLE say the Government isn’t listening, so they don’t do anything, but that’s not the way to change things. If you want change, you have to keep at it.” Julie said.

“We’ve got to keep knocking on the door and it will open one day.”

RSPCA animal welfare expert Dr Mark Kennedy said: “All too often we hear heartbreaking stories of animals who seriously injure themselves in blind panic after being spooked by fireworks. Perhaps even more shockingly, we hear of animals being deliberately injured using fireworks. Enough is enough; we need tighter controls over sale and use of these potentially lethal explosives.”

A Government spokesman told H&H: “We want the public to enjoy fireworks, but this should be done in a safe and considerate way. That is why we have robust laws in place controlling the sale, purchase and use of fireworks, to continue to promote their responsible use.

“Fireworks should not be set off near animals or close to buildings that house livestock, or near to horses in fields. Deliberately causing any animal to suffer is an offence under the Animal Welfare Act and perpetrators could face a five-year prison sentence.”

News editor’s comment

EVERY year, from October onwards, we hear and see the heartbreak caused by fireworks.

Just this year, H&H reported on the death of Flashy, who had just moved to her new home when she fractured her spine in terror of fireworks, and had to be put down.

It is thought rare zebra foal Hope, whose birth at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm, Bristol, during lockdown had been a beacon of hope in dark times, died instantly when she collided with a fence during a fireworks display.

Dettori, a 21-year-old gelding, lost an eye after he was injured during fireworks, and five-year-old mare Kaprika was found standing over her aborted foal on 5 November, exactly a year after another of the same stud’s mares had suffered a miscarriage.

These are just four we have heard about, this year, and whose heartbroken owners we have spoken to. In a recent Blue Cross survey of horse owners, 35% of respondents reported accidents as a direct result of fireworks, which included a pony who broke her neck and a horse who sustained a serious leg injury. Both had to be put down, and another pony died of a heart attack.

Please, sign the petition, write to your MP, make it clear the effect fireworks have. This must stop.

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Welfare charity’s survey aims to assess impact of fireworks on horses

Becky Murray — Tue, 01 Dec 2020 16:53:52 +0000

A welfare charity is calling on owners to complete a survey on the impact of fireworks as concerns are raised ahead of potentially “detrimental” New Year’s Eve celebrations.

Blue Cross launched the online survey, which is open until 10 December, in the hope of gaining more data on the concerns of fireworks within the equine community.

**Take the survey here**

A spokesman for the charity said as the English lockdown was in place from 5 November, many people chose to host personal firework displays in their own gardens or private fields on Bonfire Night.

“We are concerned about the rising numbers of personal celebrations in the lead up to New Year’s Eve and the detrimental effect this can have on pets and horses, who may be fearful of the sights and sounds,” he said.

Blue Cross education manager Kerry Taylor added that in these changing times it is important to understand the concerns owners have around fireworks season and the impact these can have on their animals.

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“Horses have a natural and innate flight response; and we know some fare badly when local fireworks are set off and we are hoping to understand the national picture in greater detail,” she said.

On 2 November MPs debated a 2019 petition calling for a ban on the sale of fireworks to the public. While the government stated it understood the “strong feelings” around fireworks, it said a ban would not mean the “issue would disappear”.

Other work this year included the launch of an awareness campaign by the Office for Product Safety Standards (OPSS) providing safety tips on using fireworks responsibly, with references included to pets and vulnerable people. The OPSS has also commissioned a testing programme to determine the noise level of common types of fireworks sold for public use.

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

Police hunt person who threw lit fireworks from car at horses and walkers

Eleanor Jones — Mon, 16 Nov 2020 16:21:01 +0000

Police are appealing for information after five separate incidents of fireworks’ being thrown from a moving car, at people, horses and a cyclist.

H&H reported last week of equestrians who were targeted in this way; Kent Police has now confirmed it is linking the reports, and investigating.

The force was called to five separate incidents, all involving a grey or dark Mini Cooper, over six days.

At about 9am on Friday, 6 November, it was reported that the driver of a Mini threw a firework at a dustcart in Church Road, West Kingsdown, after his vehicle was unable to pass.

Last Sunday (8 November) fireworks were thrown from a Mini towards a rider in Green Street Green Road, Darenth, at about 2.40pm, police were told. A cyclist reported the same experience 20 minutes later in Gallows Wood.

On 10 and 11 November, a dog-walker and a rider both reported being targeted by a firework thrown from a Mini, in Fawkham Road and Exedown Road, Sevenoaks, respectively.

Inspector Lizzie Jones of the Tonbridge and Malling community safety unit said: “It is only by chance that nobody has suffered serious injuries in these incidents.

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“We are linking the reports and, while investigators are making enquiries to identify those involved, we are appealing for anybody with information that may assist the investigation to contact the appeal line.

“In particular, we are asking drivers with dashcams and residents with doorbell cameras and other CCTV security systems to check footage that may show a grey or dark-coloured Mini Cooper in the area at the times of the incidents.”

Anyone with information is urged to call Kent Police on 01622 604100, quoting reference 46/202049/20, or Crimestoppers in Kent anonymously on 0800 555111 or by using the online form.

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

Fireworks thrown from car at rider and carriage-drivers in shocking incidents

Eleanor Jones — Wed, 11 Nov 2020 17:31:35 +0000

A rider and carriage-driver were lucky to escape uninjured when fireworks were thrown from a car at their horses, in separate shocking incidents.

Police are making enquiries after a number of similar reports on Sunday (8 November).

Judith Yarnold was hacking her Arab mare Zotti in West Kingsdown, Kent, when a dark grey Mini drove past.

“There was a young lad in the passenger seat, who looked at me as he passed,” she told H&H.

“They threw something on to the grass verge just in front of us — it exploded with a lot of smoke. You can get little rocket launchers and I wonder if they fired it. That would explain why it went into the undergrowth, where the smoke was billowing from, and that’s even more dangerous.”

Mrs Yarnold praised her 15-year-old mare, who stayed put.

“She’s normally quick to react but we live next to an estate where there’s a commercial shoot and I think that was my saving,” she said.

“She didn’t bolt but she was covered in sweat, with her head going round in circles, snorting.

“I was lucky but I reported it to police because it could have been a completely different story. I’m a grandparent, and kept thinking about what would have happened if it had gone into a buggy, or if it had hit me or my horse? It could have been horrific.

“I can’t understand the mindset of people who would do something like that; they’ve got to be stopped.”

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Trainer Krissy Valentine was also targeted by what is believed to have been the same culprits, when she was out with a friend and the friend’s horse in the Dartford area that afternoon.

The pair were walking either side of Matilda, who was harnessed and pulling the carriage, but were not yet on board as it was only the five-year-old mare’s third time on the roads.

Trainer Krissy told H&H: “We were just coming up to a roundabout when a car overtook, then slowed right down in front of us, and someone shouted something.

“They threw out what I thought was a joint, but then I heard that hissing whee of a firework. There was a moment of pure panic, realising an explosive is about to go off in front of you.

“My friend and I were on either side; I pulled Matilda up as quickly as I could and held on, as the firework went off about four feet in front of us.”

Krissy said the young mare was “amazingly good”, believing the fact she lives near the M25 may have accustomed her to loud noises.

“But the fact we were on foot and next to her saved the day,” she said. “If we’d been driving her — and we had been just about to get in [the carriage] — and trotting, she’d have been hit in the face.

“The car just drove off, pedal to the metal.”

Krissy, who rang police immediately, has since heard of other similar incidents locally, on the same day, including another family driving a horse, and a woman in a car, both targeted by thrown fireworks.

“I’ve always been against the public sale of fireworks because every year it’s the same; another animal hurt, another person hurt, another animal dead,” she said, adding that she has signed the latest petition to the Government calling for changes to on firework law.

“It wasn’t just us, they endangered everyone who was on the road.”

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A Kent Police spokesman told H&H: “At 2.38pm on 8 November, Kent Police received a report that a lit firework had been directed towards a horse, which was being walked in Green Street Green Road, Darenth.

“The firework, which is said to have been thrown from a dark-coloured Mini Cooper, did not make contact with the horse, or its owner, and no injuries were sustained.

“Initial investigations failed to identify any proportionate lines of enquiry and the case was briefly filed. However, further potential evidence has since been identified and enquiries continue.”

Anyone with information is asked to call Kent Police on 01474 366149, quoting 46/200437/20, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

Sign the latest Government fireworks petition online.

Do you think firework laws need to change; does the Government needs to act? Email hhletters@futurenet.com for your chance to be featured on our letters page. The letter of the week wins a bottle of Champagne Taittinger.

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

Owner of horse who broke spine joins mounting calls for tougher firework laws

Lucy Elder — Wed, 11 Nov 2020 06:51:37 +0000

More pressure is being put on the Government to introduce tighter controls over fireworks after a charity received 82 calls relating to frightened and injured animals in two weeks.

Mounting calls have been made from the Firework Abatement Campaign (FAB), MPs, individuals and charities.

The 2019 FAB petition, which received more than 300,000 signatures supporting a ban on firework sales to the general public, was debated in parliament on 2 November and the organisation’s 2020 petition has already had more than 213,000 names.

Emma James’ horse Flashy (pictured, top) died on Thursday (5 November) after she was spooked by fireworks in Shropshire.

The thoroughbred mare had just arrived at her new home from Newmarket.

“We’d been preparing for her arrival for months and she was delivered to the yard near our home on Wednesday afternoon (4 November). We checked her that evening and the following morning and she was fine,” said Emma.

“But later that day we had a call from someone at the yard saying she’d gone down in her field. We rushed down to her and found her collapsed in the mud, paralysed with fear. She had clearly been spooked and was very distressed; she was sweating, her paddock had been trashed and all the fencing was down.”

She added Flashy was “a fit and healthy youngster with a clean bill of health”, but had clearly been spooked by something that sent her “careering around her paddock and injuring herself”.

“It was Bonfire Night and I can only believe that fireworks were to blame,” said Emma.

“My 14-year-old daughter, Lola, sat and cradled her in the mud for hours until a vet arrived and we made the heartbreaking decision to have her put to sleep.

“Examinations later revealed that she’d fractured her spine and wouldn’t have been able to be saved. Flashy meant so much to us already, it was heartbreaking to lose her like this.”

A statement from the RSPCA said the charity is expecting more incidents over the coming weeks as sales and displays continue into Diwali before Christmas and new year.

H&H has already reported on a number of tragic incidents in recent weeks, including a mare who aborted her foal, a zebra foal who died after being spooked by fireworks, and a horse who lost an eye.

The RSPCA is calling for the use of fireworks to be restricted to agreed dates — November 5, New Year’s Eve, Chinese New Year and Diwali — as part of its #BangOutOfOrder campaign, which involved people lobbying their local council.

It is also calling for the reduction of maximum permitted noise level of fireworks for public sale (from 120 to 90 decibels); licensing of all public displays and private displays at special events such as weddings; and better labelling on fireworks so consumers can make informed decisions on buying “low noise” fireworks.

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“Fireworks are extremely stressful and frightening for many animals. Around 62% of dogs, 55% of horses and 54% of cats in the UK show signs of anxiety when they hear fireworks,” said RSPCA animal welfare expert Mark Kennedy.

“All too often we hear heartbreaking stories of animals like Flashy and Faye who seriously injure themselves in a blind panic after being spooked by fireworks. Perhaps even more shockingly, we seem to be seeing more incidents reported to our inspectors of animals being deliberately targeted and injured using fireworks. Enough is enough; we need tighter controls over the sale and use of these potentially lethal explosives.”

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Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.