I agree with Susan Robinson (Letters, November 9), fireworks should be pretty but silent if we are to indulge ourselves with them at all.

The firework season is turning our country into something resembling a war zone.

Sensibly, the old bangers have been banned but ridiculously replaced by loud, nerve-wracking, flashing explosions.

Our own large rescue dalmatian ran back into the house for cover and spent several evenings cross-legged, too afraid to go to the loo even when we did manage to coax her outside.

Heaven only knows how terrified the wildlife are - and they have to take refuge. Horses and farm animals must also be frightened, not to mention some elderly people, the infirm and the very young.

These irresponsible, environmentally damaging explosions should be banned.

-Elizabeth Taylor, High Salvington