HOW many older readers or pet owners with timid animals are heartily sick of the nightly repeated explosions from banger fireworks that go on incessantly?

Notice it is always bangers or rockets, never displays that are pleasing to the eye.

Many years ago when my son was very young he was a patient in Accrington Victoria Hospital. On November 5, my wife and I purchased some fireworks to light outside the window of the children's ward.

Imagine our shock and horror to visit the ward and find beds down the corridor, and on inquiring why we were told by the ward sister that this was a precaution every year because of the high casualty risk.

There and then I vowed that I would bring my children up to only attend supervised firework displays or spend the money on a little treat.

I don't know if this practice still goes on at hospitals but I should imagine that the accident rate has increased tremendously since those early years.

So why in heavens name is November 5 still with us?

It is a senseless ritual with no modern significance.

FRANCIS CROSS, Eagle Street, Accrington.