'It’s a bloody explosive': Shropshire Star readers have their say on fireworks

The fireworks have already started across the county as Bonfire Night fast approaches, but this year a poll found that three-quarters of pet owners believe it is the most stressful time of year for their animals.

By the same poll, one in five pet owners think fireworks should be banned outright - but is that too harsh? We put it to you, our readers, on the Shropshire Star Facebook page.

Plenty of worried pet owners were keen on banning fireworks outright. In fact, two-thirds of responses supported a total blanket ban, with plenty more supporting restricting fireworks to organised displays only.

Christine Hughes, who supports a total ban, said there is ‘no need’ any more for fireworks: “Drones can give a beautiful silent display.”

Others like Leanne O’Hagan are thinking beyond just protecting pets: “Total blanket ban. Silencing fireworks will not prevent injuries to livestock and wildlife.”

Neil Austin and Sarah Leeder-Burbridge have both seen too many firework-related injuries to support anything other than updated restrictions. Sarah said: “As a student nurse who worked in A&E and seeing the injuries it's upsetting when it's young children.”

Neil said: “I have worked with fireworks professionally and unprofessionally within stage work - never any injuries but I understand what I am working with. It’s a bloody explosive. Stay safe this time of year.”

A few like Linda Smith think the issue is when the fireworks are set off, not how: “The traditional Firework night, or weekend either side of the fifth should be allowed. Nothing else.”

Similarly, pet-owner Sandra Corrigan said: “Organised displays only and ban the general public from buying them. I think that’s a fair way.”