An emotive new film by Emmy-nominated writer Paul Goodenough and Redwings Horse Sanctuary, and featuring Sir Stephen Fry, was released earlier this month (1 October).
Redwings is campaigning to make low noise fireworks the standard (under 90 decibels) to help protect animals and people.
More than 184 thousand people signed the charity’s petition last year and a public consultation was launched by the Government, which is due to close today (7 October).
In the film (embedded below), Sir Stephen Fry, Peter Egan, Kate Ford, Suzie Fletcher, Dan Richardson, Faye Winter, Olivia Bowen and Will Travers ask people to join in calling on the Government to reduce the maximum noise level of consumer fireworks. Everyone has donated their time for free.
The film also includes Joanna whose horse died after a firework went off nearby; Ruth who moved house because of the trauma relentless fireworks was causing her dog; Inayah who is campaigning against the use of antisocial fireworks and armed service veteran Craig for who fireworks make life intolerable.
As the audience, we are asked if this is what we want, for animals and vulnerable people to suffer for the enjoyment of others.
Paul Goodenough and his team reached out to Redwings as part of his charity Rewriting Earth’s efforts to bring maximum attention to campaigns for good causes.
“I’m over the moon to be doing my small part in bringing the conversation on dangerously loud fireworks to the mainstream,” said Paul.
“I really don’t care if they call me a killjoy for trying to stop them. I have only one interest; that I try everything I can to stop the suffering of animals. Whether through humour, film, music, drama or comics…it’s all negotiable. My commitment to helping animals however, isn’t.”
Helen Whitelegg, Redwings’ Campaigns and Policy Manager, said it had been incredible to work with Paul and his team on this film, and Redwings were so grateful to everyone who had donated their time.
“Our message is clear,” she said. “Low noise fireworks can offer the celebration and community people value, but without causing such a negative impact on animals and people.
“Horses and other animals die every year as a result of loud fireworks, and many people suffer.
“This is a vital moment on the road to regulatory change, and we need everyone to take this opportunity to share their views and experiences.
“Let’s ensure horses, other animals and vulnerable people are better protected from fireworks by asking for a 90-decibel noise limit in this important consultation. People can also ask for restrictions on types of fireworks that are available to the public and outline the benefits they believe new regulations could bring.”
Lead image: Shutterstock/Alexander Prokopenko
