Lasers replace noisy fireworks

END-OF-YEAR fireworks have been cancelled by a town council and will be replaced by a laser show from this year onwards, after concerns were raised over frightened starlings.

Residents in Bideford, Devon, backed a petition that voiced fears that the New Year’s Eve display caused starlings roosting under a footbridge to fly in “blind terror”, even heading into buildings and a nearby river.

Almost 7,000 people signed the petition, started by Rob Durrant, which was supported by BBC presenters Chris Packham and Michaela Strachan.

It was brought before Bideford town council and now members have voted in favour of banning the annual firework display. Speaking after the meeting, Mr Durrant said members voted to inform organisers that a laser show would be preferred in its place.

He said: “Various options were floated, including a laser show, noiseless fireworks, a combination of lasers and quiet fireworks, no fireworks.

“There was immediate strong support for stopping loud fireworks.

“Councillors suggested a laser show as a new and up-to-date way of celebrating NYE, which it was hoped would be a better and more modern way of doing things and attract more people back into Bideford.”

The event organisers for the town’s New Year’s Eve celebrations said when the petition started they would be happy to consider alternative options.