Fireworks
An open letter: Dear Mother Nature Tomorrow, at midnight (wherever they are on Earth), many human cultures will celebrate the start of a New Year. They will do it in all kinds of ways. Many will gather with friends and family to wish each other – and the sparkling wine industry – well for the year ahead. Some will go to places of worship. A little later, several hundred certifiable lunatics (including possibly – hangover permitting – the undersigned) will brave the cold of the North Sea for a (very) fresh start to the New Year. Some commendable individuals such as fire-fighters, police, paramedics and other emergency personnel will remain on duty, many to save people from or treat them for the results of their own stupidity – they don’t call this the silly season for nothing! But some will find it necessary to celebrate with fireworks. Not just the pyrotechnic rockets that are undeniably a joy to all in their infinite variety – particularly in the