BAN IS THE ANSWER: In response to Jenny Orford's letter (News Shopper, October 20).

Yes, people did enjoy Bonfire Night in the not too distant past and it was generally a happy and trouble-free occasion but it cannot be described as that now. Any excuse is used to let off fireworks at any time, day or night and at any time of the year. The fireworks now bear no resemblance to those of even ten years ago. They are horrendous, noisy and too powerful for gardens, frightening small children, terrifying pets and upsetting wildlife. Fireworks, properly used and controlled are fine but consideration for others has gone, which is why many people want a ban on domestic use. Bans are necessary when a few stupid and selfish individuals step over the line of common sense and good behaviour.
N Wilson, Sidcup

SICK OF NOISE: I am writing in support of those people who are sick and tired of noisy, late-night fireworks, weeks before (and after) bonfire night. For three weeks now we have been disturbed late into the night with loud bangers being let off at ten minute intervals all through the night. These fireworks are coming from the same direction every night but it is impossible for the police to pinpoint exactly where they are, even if they had the time and resources to do something about it. Anyone who sees their pet cowering behind the sofa every night will surely call for a ban on all fireworks except organised displays. Fireworks are just another tool in the hands of thugs.
Jane Cullen, Lee

RELIGION IS ALIVE: "Stuffy church service, stolid hymns and airy phrases" can only be the widely inaccurate comments of one who has not been to church recently. Rachel Bradman wants to pop along to Bromley Christian Centre and see exactly what is on offer to 21st-century believers. Fantastic, lively worship, welcoming people, a tantalising cafe and always an inspiring, relevant service. I certainly do not "need to be religious", I simply can't not worship a very real, living God.
Maxine Littlechild, Bromley

GET OUT OF EU: How much more crawling and knee bending must we do in Europe? Now Germany wants to say sorry about bombing them in the last war. But didn't they start both wars? Now they want our queen to say sorry - that would be degrading and an insult to our veterans etc. What next? Isn't it time we left this mad-house called Europe?
Martin Morris, Address supplied