An open letter on behalf of horse owners in Hambledon
Dear Hambledon residents,
We are writing to ask for your help ahead of Guy Fawkes night and the associated fireworks. Last year several of us were subjected to localised fireworks that caused severe distress and injury. In the worst example, an injured horse at Hydon Farm had to be repeatedly sedated by a vet and in one other, sustained a serious injury. For those of us trying to calm them and prevent injury, it was truly awful to witness.
Whilst we understand people like to celebrate, and at organised events support that, it is a very stressful time for those of us with animals, particularly horses.
This year we are working hard to raise awareness of the risks and potential consequences. We rely upon others to act with applied common sense, care and compassion. In addition the law is more clear and states;
Section 4 of the AWA 2006 says ……
Source: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2006/45/contents
(1) A person commits an offence if—(a) an act of his, or a failure of his to act, causes an animal to suffer, (b) he knew, or ought reasonably to have known, that the act, or failure to act, would have that effect or be likely to do so, (c) the animal is a protected animal, and. (d) the suffering is unnecessary. If the fireworks are near a road you can also contact the Highways division of your council and quote the following Source: Explosives Act 1875 Section 161
The defence often cited is that people didn’t know we had animals. This year we ask you all to please take the time to check whether you are near horses or livestock and if so, please do not set off fireworks. We have the support of the Parish Council and Police to raise awareness and we would appreciate your help locally to spread the word to others, who may not be aware.
We hope you join us in wanting to do all we can to prevent the same happening this year, otherwise it is only time before an animal is very seriously injured or worse.
Best wishes,
Sarah Morris
Louise Robini
Fiona Jopp
Caroline Hockaday
Adam Davis
Georgina Howick
Debbie Lott
Richard Field
Giles Pascoe
Angela Ward
Fiona Andrabe Brown
Roger Hockaday
Maria Taylor
Julie Davis
Lucy Hewett