Pub turns to silent fireworks in animal welfare move
Harry Counsell, director of Counsell Pubs, will be holding the display of silent fireworks at the Clothiers Arms in Stroud this new year.
The idea came from a customer after residents voiced concerns that the noise causes distress for their pets and dogs.
Bigger and louder
Counsell said: “Every year for the past five years, we have had a private-invite party for locals and regulars, but each year our small firework display has got bigger and louder.
“I received a message from a local resident who asked if I had ever thought about having a silent firework display at the New Year’s Eve party.
“I made some enquiries to firework company Chase Lane Fireworks in Gloucester and they informed me they had commercial-grade fireworks which can provide silent and reduced-noise displays all year round.”
Dog-friendly all round
Counsell also owns the Bowbridge Arms, Stroud, which is also a dog-friendly pub – to the point of serving doggie roasts on Sundays and homemade dog treats.
He continued: “We have two dogs and they don’t like the fireworks, so in keeping with our love for dogs and other animals and our elderly residents, we decided to give it a go.”
The silent firework display will appear like a normal display but with reduced noise and without the loud bangs.
Positive feedback
Counsell said they have had positive feedback from the locals who think it’s a great idea.
He continued: “I think once we see how good it can be, it will certainly be a regular thing every year.
“We need to be much more aware of our local residents and their feelings nowadays.
“Fireworks are spectacular and can add a great deal to the end of the evening - but they just don’t need to sound like the start of World War Three.”
