A new film by Emmy-nominated writer Paul Goodenough and Redwings Horse Sanctuary is being released last Thursday 1st October, featuring Sir Stephen Fry and a host of other famous faces alongside people who’ve suffered because of fireworks.
Redwings is campaigning to make low noise fireworks the standard (under 90 decibels) to help protect animals and people.
Over 184 thousand people signed the charity’s petition last year and a public consultation was launched by the Government, which is due to close next week (7th October).
In the film, 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. Paul said: “I’m over the moon to be doing my small part in bringing the conversation on dangerously loud fireworks to the mainstream.
“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 has been incredible to work with Paul and his team on this film, and we’re so grateful to everyone who has donated their time.
“Our message is clear. 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.”
The link to the Government’s public consultation is here.