A HORSE lover is urging people to think before they let off fireworks after a terrifying experience on Bonfire Night.
Jo Johnson has spoken out after two neighbours to her field let off fireworks on November 5, despite her asking if they planned to mark Guy Fawkes Night.
“I’ve nothing against fireworks I just want to make people aware of the impact they can have in scaring livestock,” she said.
“I contacted my neighbours opposite the yard asking if they planned on having any fireworks.
“I got answers back from all but two and they had a huge firework display, it seemed one after the other.
“The horses were out in the field and they were very panicky and fearful and running around – they could have broken a leg.”
Jo, who has kept horses for 25 years, lives in Brockhill in Redditch but has 15 acres in Hollow Tree Lane in Bromsgrove where the horses are kept.
“If we had known they were going to have fireworks there are a number of things we could have done to ease the stress on the horses.
“We could have brought them into the stables where we can play music for them, we can sedate and make it comfortable for them, or moved them to another paddock.
“People should know about the unintended consequences of their actions.
“If we’d have known we could have taken the necessary steps so the horses would have been safe and they could still have enjoyed their parties.”
