29 October 2025
Tens of thousands of people have signed a petition launched by Redwings asking the Government to reduce the maximum permitted noise level of fireworks from 120 to 90 decibels.
So far over 60,000 individuals have put their name to the UK Government and Parliament petition - at 100,000 signatures the Government is obliged to consider it for debate.
Amongst those supporting the call for change are actor, broadcaster and writer Sir Stephen Fry; actor Amanda Abbington, who is best known for her role on Sherlock; actor Kate Ford, who plays Tracy Barlow in Coronation Street; TV personality and presenter Kate Lawler and TV personality and businesswoman Olivia Bowen.
“I’ve long admired the work of Redwings, and it's become something of a tradition for me to support the work of this wonderful charity. I was delighted to offer my voice to their campaign asking for a reduction in the maximum volume of consumer fireworks by signing their petition and I would really encourage everyone to get behind this.”
“Our cat Walt was really scared of the fireworks last year and seeing how badly it affected him was a real eye-opener. Fireworks can be a serious animal welfare issue and I hope people will keep horses and all animals in mind this Bonfire Night. I have signed and shared Redwings’ petition and hope others will do the same.”
"The loud noises some fireworks make are such a worry for people who love and look after horses like I do. Everyone knows I’m horse mad and have been my whole life. I have two of my own, my gorgeous girl Dolly, who is my soul horse, and Sausage who came to live with us last year. I chose to use low noise fireworks at my wedding and fully support Redwings in their call to reduce the maximum volume allowed. I have signed and shared Redwings’ petition and hope others will too.”
From the world of equine sport, four-time dressage Team GB Olympian Richard Davison and Team GB Olympic showjumper Joe Stockdale are supporting the petition.
Joe Stockdale said: “As someone who has been around horses my entire life I am aware of the negative effect fireworks can have on them, and the difficulties in protecting sensitive animals from very loud, unexpected noises. I totally support Redwings' efforts to raise awareness and seek change that could limit the danger posed by using loud fireworks. I have signed and shared this petition and am urging everyone to keep horses in mind.”
Farrier-influencer Sam Wolfenden and saddle-fitter and businesswoman Poppy Webber, who have recently become Redwings Ambassadors alongside Olivia Bowen and Joe Stockdale, are also supporting.
Poppy Webber said: “As a horse owner and animal lover, I know how terrifying fireworks can be for our four-legged friends. Now, I absolutely love a nice, planned firework display, but… what brings joy to us can mean panic, injury, and lasting trauma for our horses and pets.
“Lowering the maximum volume of fireworks to 90 decibels is a simple change that would still let people celebrate, but in a way that’s kinder and safer for animals, wildlife, and even vulnerable people in our communities. Please take a moment to sign the petition - together, we can ‘Keep Horses In Mind’ and make a real difference.”
Research, including a Redwings survey of over 5,000 UK horse owners, suggests that reducing the permitted noise levels for fireworks could reduce their negative impact.
As many of our supporters will know, tragically we have lost three of our own rescued residents in the past. Despite efforts to keep them safe, Redwings’ Cinders, Sprite and Percy died in incidents relating to fireworks being let off nearby.
We launched our Keep Horse in Mind campaign last year and are also working with other charities and individuals to raise awareness, gather information and seek changes to legislation.
An MP drop-in event is taking place in Westminster next month organised by the Fireworks Impact Coalition (formerly the Fireworks Working Group), of which we are a part, with the aim of influencing those with the power to bring about change. The event will take place on Wednesday 12th November, between 1.30pm – 4.45pm, in Dining Room B, House of Commons.
A template letter, asking your MP to attend, is available here (PDF 103 KB) and you can find your MP's contact details here.
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