Could this be the last Bonfire Night for noisy fireworks at home?

Bangers, rockets and screamers have long been part of Bonfire Night - but the traditional celebrations might sound a little different next year. The government is currently considering reducing the limit for the noisiest fireworks for private use by 50%, after pressure from campaigners concerned about the impact on nervous animals and people with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Andy Hubble, of the British Fireworks Association (BFA), said displays had already been getting quieter and a balance must be struck to prevent a black market in noisy fireworks springing up. The end of October sees the start of several celebrations traditionally marked by fireworks and bonfires, including Halloween on 31 October, Guy Fawkes Night on 5 November, and Diwali, which is on 8 November this year.

It is already illegal to sell fireworks to under 18s, or to set fireworks off after 23:00, with exemptions for special occasions including Bonfire Night, Diwali, New Year's Eve and Chinese New Year.