AN animal welfare charity fears this firework season 'could be the worst in decades' as public events are cancelled and there are more private displays.
The RSPCA has conducted a poll which revealed 21 per cent of 2,274 UK adults surveyed plan to hold a private display at home this year and 20 per cent plan to attend a private display at a friend's or family's home.
Dr Mark Kennedy, RSPCA animal welfare expert, said: "We fear that, because of the rule of six, there will be lots of little displays taking place over weeks and weeks, spreading out fireworks noise and causing prolonged distress for animals.
"We'd urge people to be considerate and keep neighbours with animals, including those with nearby horses and other livestock, informed of plans well in advance so they can make preparations to reduce the stress to their animals."
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