Bill will regulate sale of fireworks (From News Shopper)

Bill will regulate sale of fireworks

12:34pm Tuesday 11th March 2003 in News

A PARTIALLY-sighted man from Catford is backing a new Bill to restrict fireworks sales after his guide dog was frightened by part of a falling firework.

The Fireworks Bill aims to control the use of fireworks by introducing compulsory licences for shops and tougher penalties for people who use them illegally.

The Bill passed its second reading last Thursday.

It is supported by animal welfare charities as well as guide dog-owner Derek Dawkins, 63, of Ardgowan Road.

His eight-year-old guide dog Cooper usually manages to cope with the noise and disruption caused by fireworks but, one Bonfire Night two years ago, he was hit on the head by falling debris.

Mr Dawkins said: "He was outside in the garden and there were fireworks flying all around.

"He was hit on the head with one of the sticks. It was about two-feet long and my wife noticed it had the words not for public use written on it.

"We had to calm him down and he's not too bothered now but I know so many people whose dogs were not so lucky.

"I think the Bill will make a big difference. I don't want to prevent people having fireworks, they are part of a celebration, but the current set-up we have is no good.

"Also you must remember, that stick could have hit a person," he added.

It costs up to £30,000 to train a guide dog and each animal is trained to match the individual needs of the owner according to their lifestyle.

Stress caused by fireworks can cause a dog to be retired early and some people are left stranded without a guide dog for as long as 18 months.

Lewisham East MP Bridget Prentice is also backing the Bill.

She said: "Many animals, whether they are kept as pets or workers, are terrified by fireworks and the trauma they can induce in guide dogs can result in them being unable to work.

"They can also remain distressed at sudden noises for the rest of their lives."