Kilmarnock fireworks fiasco as East Ayrshire Leisure answer 8 key questions on axed event

dailyrecord.co.uk:

Following the sudden cancellation of Kilmarnock's fireworks festival, the Kilmarnock Standard asked East Ayrshire Leisure bosses to address issues and concerns surrounding the event.While thousands attended the first Fawkes Festival a week ago, some members of the public and the SSPCA raised huge concerns about the event.Such was the outcry that organisers axed the event after they claimed threats were made to staff.Now points surrounding animal welfare, preparation for the event, SSPCA concerns and future events have all been addressed. Kilmarnock Standard (KS): When did East Ayrshire Leisure become aware of threats that were made to staff? East Ayrshire Leisure (EAL): On the lead up Tuesday’s event.KS: How many threats were received or made and what was the nature of the threats? EAL: This is currently under investigation and we are unable to comment KS: Did East Ayrshire Leisure or the organisers consult with any animal welfare groups/organisations or experts before the festival took place? EAL: Yes.

Sound and noise levels of the display were reduced and livestock staff were on hand to monitor the animals for levels of distress, with call-off measures in place if required. KS: Paul Mathieson reportedly said that the nature of the display meant that fireworks started off quieter and got louder so that deer could be 'desensitised' to the noise.

Is that the case? And was this method based on any advice from any animal experts? EAL: This is not verbatim what was said.

Shows are designed by the experienced firework company to reflect this sensitive environment, starting low altitude low noise, and building the display up over time, and capping the size of product.