Dear Fido and Chester (Letters, November 14 and 19): My new mum and dad picked me and adopted me from Boxer Rescue on Saturday, November 3.

That night, the big bangs started and went on, night after night. I was so frightened and would not even go into the garden to go to toilet.

I'm sorry to say I disgraced myself and went on the floor.

I was so happy to have a new home and go out for lots of lovely walks in Stanmer Park and up on the hills.

Then, on Saturday, November 10, I was with my dad at 4pm, walking in Coldean woods, when someone set off a very loud bang and I panicked, pulled the lead from dad's hand and ran into Coldean Lane.

I was hit by a car.

The vet said I was a very lucky boy but I don't feel lucky because I have hurt my leg and it is very painful.

I can't go for walks until it gets better. I am still frightened to go into the garden at night and my mum has to come with me, just in case everything goes bang again.

* PS: A note from my mum to David Lepper MP: When is there to be a law to prohibit the sale of high-powered fireworks to the public and ban the sale of them after November 5?

I used to love fireworks but, after the distress of the past couple of weeks, when my dog was injured, caused by the thoughtlessness of some people, I have certainly changed my mind.

-Mr and Mrs Francis, Coldean