Firework event 'key' for raising rugby club funds

Chris Gnapp said he understood pet owners' concerns about private firework events

A local rugby club has said its annual public firework event is a vital fundraiser amid concerns raised about the display by pet owners.

Chris Gnapp, sponsorship director for Guernsey Raiders, called the display "one of the key events" in the club's calendar in terms of raising money.

But pet owners have expressed concerns over the impact of fireworks on animals and have called for displays to be restricted to one night in future, with more than 50 registered firework events being held in the space of two weeks this year.

Mr Gnapp said: "Like any charity out there, our fundraising efforts are extremely important. Every penny that we raise goes back into playing rugby in the island."

Last year, the club estimated that about 1,500 people attended the event.

"We're able to get the community down, put on a really good show for them and and raise some much-needed funds for the club," said Mr Gnapp, who added that he empathised with pet owners.

"Please attend public events that are well-publicised rather than hold your own events in your own back garden for example. I think that's where the issue is," said Mr Gnapp.

Guernsey Raiders' firework display will be held at Footes Lane on Sunday from 17:00 GMT.