Sir,

I hope that the organisers of the Saundersfoot New Year's Day Swim will not be put off starting the swim with a salvo of fireworks next year by the issue raised in the letter in last week's 'paper from the owner of the 'terrified whippet'.

These pyrotechnics are an essential element of the whole swim spectacle and hopefully they also help to persuade the thousands of spectators to dip into their pockets for the bucket collection - they certainly add to the atmosphere and the adrenalin-fueled race for the sea.

As a dog owner, I have to question the wisdom of bringing a nervous animal to this event. Even without the fireworks, the loud music, large crowds and the screams and shouts of the swimmers would surely be enough to frighten some dogs.

So, please keep the fireworks, enjoy the spectacle and leave the dog at home!

Mrs. Taylor,

Greyfriars,

Hereford.