What is it with these pyrotechnic maniacs that possess them to continually blast off fireworks, day after day?

For a fortnight in the run-up to Bonfire night, and for the next three weeks, we had fireworks, literally, for breakfast, dinner and supper. Some of the fireworks were so large and loud, questioning whether or not it was really lawful for the general public to obtain them. I understood that the large type of firework, such as the 'bombard' type, required a licence to purchase and a certificated pyrotechnic expert to set them off. How is it that these monsters are readily available to anyone? And do the people letting them off know what they are doing?

But bonfire night is not enough for some people, who seem to think fireworks are for any event, any time of the year. For my part, I am totally sick of hearing them night after night, for most of the yobbo pyrotechnicians seem to think that ten o'clock in the evening, or later is the appropriate time. Last night, (28th Dec), they started at 10.15pm and went on until 10.50pm. They have absolutely no concern for the babies and young children who have just gone to sleep, and for the older folk who go to bed early. And they have no respect for Xmas Day, either, for there were quite a few let off on that day, shattering the peace of the festival, including one stupidly let off at midnight. Have they been reported for prosecution for contravening the noise pollution laws? I doubt it.

What gives these people the right to selfishly ignore the feelings of other people? It is about time that the Council refused licences to shopkeepers to sell these fireworks, because restricting the sale to a few days does not work. In fact the Council could ban all independent private Firework parties, in favour of a one-off display, for which a pound extra on the rates would suffice, thereby ensuring a good display. I am not against that. It would only require a new byelaw to put an end to this nuisance. Charity events such as the Rugby Club could be allowed a permit or licence for their special event.

I think that not only local authorities, but also the Government itself should place a ban on the sale of fireworks to the general public. They are dangerous and cause many accidents each year. Why are we, as a nation, so stupid as to provide the materials for bombs, whilst expressing a determination to stamp out terrorism? After all, we don't really need them, do we? I have written to my MP, Mr Maples enclosing a copy of this letter, in the hope that something can be done by the Government.

Name and address supplied.