THE fireworks boom-bang-a-bang will be starting soon. It may be influential to give it a little early publicity. Then we can see if the new laws have had a civilising effect.

Recent years have been a nightmare for the elderly, the very young and dogs and cats. Selfishness means having pleasure which caused others pain. The bangers have got bigger and bigger over the years. So much so, that criminal organisations may take an interest in modern fireworks.

Working-class residents suffer most from the mayhem. Because middle-class districts would be sending solicitors' letters for persistent crazy nuisance. Serious injuries do occur every year.

So commonsense people will be watching the pleasure and pain of this year's crash-bang-wallop through day and night. The trick is to have fun without causing misery. Parents please note.

Max Nottingham, St Faith's Street, Lincoln.