Fireworks night for charity raises £80,000

THE highlight of the Rainbows hospice events calendar, a spectacular night of fireworks fun for all the family has been hailed a sensational success.

The Leicester Racecourse Bonfire Night spectacle was attended by almost 10,000 people and raised more than £80,000 to support youngsters with life-limiting conditions – a new record for the event.

Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People hosted its popular Bonfire Night celebration, ‘Pennies for the Guy’ at the Oadby venue on Saturday, which featured two breath-taking firework displays.

The ever popular children’s fireworks were co-ordinated to Disney Pixar music to light up the faces of younger children, while the main display once more wowed Bonfire Night revellers. Children from Stoneygate School who had designed and made the giant 12-foot guy counted down to the firework fun.

This year’s event also featured an exciting funfair for thrill seekers between 5.30pm and 10pm, with a variety of stalls, bars and food outlets onsite to enjoy. And there was live music too.

Vicki Brunt, Rainbows Event Fundraiser, said: “We are thrilled by the support for this spectacular event which was a brilliant evening of family fun. Thank you to everyone who came. Every penny we make goes towards helping youngsters and their families across the East Midlands who need our support.”