Community members in Telford, Shropshire, are currently collecting signatures for a petition asking local leaders to stop the public sale of fireworks. The group wants Telford & Wrekin Council to restrict firework use to professional displays only to protect animals and improve public safety.
The campaign follows a violent incident at the Donnington Bonfire in November 2025 and ongoing concerns about the impact of loud noises on pets and horses. Local campaigners Emma James and Louise Burns have been calling for tighter rules since 2020, after a horse died in nearby Broseley when it was frightened by fireworks.
Residents are also asking the council to support the RSPCA and its “Bang Out of Order” campaign. This initiative suggests lowering the legal noise limit for fireworks sold to the public from 120 decibels down to 90 decibels to make them less distressing for vulnerable people and animals.
While the UK Government stated on November 18, 2025, that it does not plan to ban the sale of fireworks nationally, local councils can still set their own rules for their communities. If the petition is successful, Telford could see stricter controls on who can buy and set off fireworks in residential neighbourhoods.
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