COUNCILLOR Orrell's remarks about the noise created by the South Bank fireworks are drivel and based on lazy thinking (January 18).

The fact that "hotels and other venues", as well as the racecourse management, hold these gratuitous events in no way excuses any of them.

As for a "voluntary agreement", why the toothless, sloppy, half-hearted response to such a grave environmental problem?

Fireworks are a visual spectacle. They do not need to be loud at all, let alone deafening.

These huge displays give momentary pleasure to those inane and self-centred individuals who find it exciting to listen to loud bangs.

Why is Councillor Orrell allowing these people this privilege over the majority?

There is only one solution. A ban on the ultra-loud firework must apply every night of the year, including November 5 and New Year.

Permanent hearing damage only has to happen once.

Mark Grahame,

Trafalgar Street,

South Bank,

York.

Updated: 09:44 Tuesday, January 25, 2005