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Thousands turned out to enjoy a dazzling display at the weekend as Paisley’s annual fireworks spectacular went off with a bang.
The town’s historic skyline lit up during the extravaganza that delighted crowds of more than 25,000 on Saturday night, accompanied by an 80s soundtrack.
The themed event took place as part of Paisley’s Winter Festival as the town bids to be named UK City of Culture 2021.
Each of the town’s rivals – Coventry, Stoke, Sunderland and Swansea – were given a surprise musical shout-out across the day.
The soundtrack to the display itself referenced Sunderland with Sweet Dreams by the Eurythmics in celebration of the duo’s Dave Stewart, who hails from the city.
Stoke’s musical heritage was marked with Sweet Child O’ Mine by Guns N’ Roses, from 1987, in honour of guitarist Slash who was born in the city, while Total Eclipse of the Heart from Bonnie Tyler was the musical nod given to Swansea.
One Step Beyond by Madness marked Coventry’s moment to celebrate its links with ska music and Paisley’s own musical heritage was celebrated with local star Kelly Marie’s 1980 hit, Feels Like I’m in Love.
Radio Clyde DJs Callum Gallacher and Grant and Amber earlier added to the musical fun, with George Bowie and Cassi also playing 80s classics leading up to the dazzling display, introduced by Provost Lorraine Cameron.
Earlier in the day,revellers enjoyed a host of 80s themed free family fun, including a silent disco, kids’ workshops and retro arcade games.
Remode Redesign ran fabric print workshops using a range of 80s games-themed wooden blocks, while a silent disco saw two sets of music fans of all ages dance to different soundtracks through headsets.
Paisley 2021 bid director, Jean Cameron, said: “This year’s display was nothing short of spectacular and it was great to see so many people in the community come into the town centre to enjoy it.
“Seeing the fireworks against the back drop of Paisley Abbey really is something special.
“As we bid to be named UK City of Culture 2021, it’s a great reminder of how Paisley is capable of staging events such as this.”