Tighter restrictions are being brought in on fireworks displays to protect animals and vulnerable people.

Councillors in Medway want to restrict noise levels and see public events notify residents better so they can take precautions to look after their pets.

The motion tabled at Medway Council's latest meeting put forward four commitments, which have now been backed by the RSPCA.

Cllr Hazel Browne (Lab), who brought the motion, said she hoped it will "mitigate the negative impacts" of fireworks both at large public displays and in private gardens.

The ward member for Twydall said: "Fireworks are used to celebrate a range of events and this motion doesn't hinder this.

"Research has shown fireworks cause fear responses in animals and anxiety in people.

"Loud sounds, including fireworks, can trigger trauma events to children with certain kinds of disabilities and older people.

'Research has shown fireworks cause fear responses in animals and anxiety in people,' Cllr Hazel Browne

"We believe the actions are proportional and have the potential to be expanded upon and will reduce the negative impacts on animals and humans.

"It doesn't go in any way against anybody and makes things better for us all and particularly for animals and people with fear of loud noises."

Officers have been asked to find out how all public fireworks displays in Medway should advertise in advance and a public awareness campaign is also set to be launched.

This will "actively promote" issues surrounding the impact of fireworks on animal welfare and vulnerable people and precautions to mitigate risks.

The council will now lobby the government to introduce a 90dB limit on all fireworks sold for public and private displays.

Medway shops will also be encouraged to "stock quieter fireworks".

The motion gained unanimous support from across the council chamber at the meeting on January 23.

Medway joins more than 10 authorities in England to have passed such measures, according to the RSPCA.

The charity is supporting the move saying it received 411 calls related to concerns about animal welfare and fireworks in 2018.

RSPCA Government relations manager Claire McParland said: “Sadly we are inundated with calls each year about welfare concerns for animals connected to fireworks and we hear first hand how frustrated the public are that the bonfire night period seems to last longer than ever before.

"We know being prepared can make all the difference for pets and their owners – so better advertising of displays and a public awareness campaign will help ensure fireworks can be enjoyed more safely in Medway."

The RSPCA offers advice to pet owners at www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/general/fireworks and is also running a campaign

Escaped animals, unusual finds and news from the RSPCA can all be found here.

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