I WAS glad to read that MP Brian Iddon is seeking a ban on what he calls "big" fireworks. This will certainly prevent injuries to those who might have been foolish enough to purchase and set them off.

However, it does absolutely nothing to resolve the very real problems and dangers that are caused by the misuse and abuse of the so called "garden" fireworks (what a misnomer).

Dr Iddon is well aware that it is the latter fireworks that cause utter misery to local residents.

Your newspaper recently published a photograph of Mr Iddon presenting a petition against Firework Nuisance, to the Farnworth councillors. I believe that all three councillors appreciate the very real misery endured by local people when reckless and irresponsible people abuse these fireworks.

I also believe that many councillors would accept that drastic measures needed to be taken to curb the sale of such fireworks which regularly fall into the wrong hands.

It certainly should not be left to a council sub-committee to decide that it is acceptable for such misery to be endured for such a long period as we have experienced in recent years.

I do not accept for one moment Mr Iddon's view that no measures can be taken to at least reduce the period of sale. All the petitioners now wait to see if the fears and concerns of local people really do have any meaning to those elected to serve our interests in local affairs.

Name and address supplied

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