Gary's views

Gary's weekly views

Each week an article by Gary has appeared in the Plympton Plymstock and Ivybridge News in South West Devon. The articles are published here

FIREWORKS

We are approaching the time of year when common sense flies out of the window and a country in which you can be fined for dropping litter or exceeding a speed limit by five miles an hours allows people do what they like with highly dangerous tubes of explosive material. Yes, it’s fireworks time again. Naturally, I do understand why people want to celebrate the time that the House of Commons was very nearly blown to smithereens, with all of its odious occupants in it! I would point out however, that it was a long time ago and Mr Fawkes failed in his mission. Maybe its time to get over it!

Just kidding. I have enjoyed firework night in the past and admire the skill of the people who make these incendiaries. But not everybody does, and so I write with a plea. Let’s all think about the implications of our ear-splitting fun on our neighbours, especially those mature in years, especially those living alone, especially those who rely on their pets for company.

Every year I get letters telling me about the awful experience that a surprising number of residents go through in the run up to Guy Fawkes’ night. Our harmless bangs can be somebody else’s night of torture. For every person who contacts me pointing out the impact on their own nerves, at least two describe the terror wreaked on their pets causing distress to them and their owners.
Over the past few years Parliament has tightened up the rules and the firework manufacturers and retailers have played ball. More and more people are attending organised bonfire night parties – which is much better because they tend to be in remote places and of course only happen on the night itself or the weekend closest to it.

But still a mindless few cause mayhem by throwing bangers in the street for weeks on end and letting of rockets where they cause maximum disruption. Leaving aside the physical damage they can do, the random nature of these explosions heightens a sense of mayhem in normally quiet neighbourhoods.In years to come, I think we will look back and be amazed at how we allowed young people access to such explosive material in such an unfettered way. But for now, let’s all have a good time, but remember our vulnerable neighbours and their pets, and use fireworks in a safe and neighbourly way.

posted by Nigel on Tuesday, November 13, 2007