SSPCA blast Kilmarnock fireworks display and urge organisers to axe event

dailyrecord.co.uk:

Scotland's leading animal welfare charity has blasted Kilmarnock's fireworks display.The Scottish Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA) has voiced serious concerns over an event at the Dean Castle and Country Park and urged organisers to axe the 20 minute display at the beauty spot.One event took place on Sunday evening with another set to take place on Tuesday, following 'unprecedented demand'.The Fawkes Festival promises "family fun, pre-show entertainment, fairground rides, delicious food and drink and a magnificent Halloween-inspired professional fireworks display set to music, lights and lasers."However, the first event has been widely criticised from members of the public who have raised concerns over the welfare of the animals kept in captivity in the park and the wild animals that live in the park.

Locals that stay several miles from the park have reported being able to hear the display.Others have also criticised the cost of the event with adults being charged more than £15 and kids aged four to 15 costing almost £10 - costing an average family of four £50.Following complaints, the SSPCA say they've been trying to contact the owners of the castle and estate.The charity posted on Facebook this evening: "Following concerns reported to our animal helpline we are attempting to contact the owners of Dean Castle Country Park to voice our concerns over the use of fireworks in such close proximity to animals that are housed on site."Our recommendation would be that fireworks are not set off in this location and alternatives should be sought immediately (such as through the use of drones which have proved successful at other events)."The event is designed and produced by the team at GC Live and delivered