Horse sanctuary wants tougher firework restrictions

Redwings said its horses had been distressed by a fireworks display

A horse sanctuary has backed a national campaign for a review of fireworks legislation after claiming its animals became "very frightened" during a display.

Redwings, based in Norfolk, released footage from Sunday night which appeared to show its horses in "distress".

The charity said three of its ponies had died from the effects of fireworks in "recent years".

The British Fireworks Association (BFA) said that when fireworks were used "safely, considerately and responsibly" they caused no harm.

In England, current laws restrict when fireworks can be sold and let off.

Helen Whitelegg, a research and policy officer for Redwings, told BBC Radio Norfolk that horses were naturally "very fearful animals".

"They have evolved in the wild to be really alert to predators… so when these incredibly loud noises go off close to them, they have this overwhelming drive to get away," she said.

"To them, in their minds, it's a life-or-death urge.".

Redwings said it spent about £1,500 preparing for last weekend, including increased staffing levels and moving animals to other fields.

It said it had been warned in advance that a display was set to take place.

Redwings is backing a national campaign called #BangOutOfOrder, led by the RSPCA.

It is calling for tighter laws on private fireworks displays, including limiting the use and sale of fireworks, implementing firework control zones and reducing maximum noise levels.

The RSPCA said noises and flashes caused by fireworks had led to pets, horses and livestock being injured or killed.

Footage released by Redwings shows horses running around fields during a nearby fireworks display

Jade, a horse in South Gloucestershire, was put down last week after being injured when it was scared by fireworks

A horse in South Gloucestershire died last week having been spooked by a nearby display.

Steve Raper, BFA chairman, said: "With regards to animals, the majority react to things that are out of the ordinary or how their owners react.

"A firework display is not far different to a colourful thunderstorm – nature copes well with those.

"For anyone intending to set fireworks off near a stable we recommend that they let them know as a matter of courtesy – we must make it clear that this is a courtesy to allow them to prepare and is in no way seen seeking permission or approval."

The Scottish government brought in a new law last year heavily restricting the sale of fireworks and making it an offence to buy them for young people.

However, on Sunday, police and fire crews in Edinburgh were attacked by youths with fireworks, petrol bombs and masonry.

Footage showed a stand-off between youths and police in Edinburgh

Redwings, which has four centres across Norfolk, said it would be attending a Fireworks Working Group event for MPs at the House of Commons on 6 December.