Round Table’s on fire with spectacular show

THOUSANDS of eager spectators turned out for the return of Southport Hesketh Round Table Grand Bonfire and Fireworks display on Saturday.

The volunteers from Southport Hesketh Round Table gave up their time to stage the event which, to begin with, was not without its challenges.

They had undertaken a big task moving from Victoria Park to Meols Hall and the rain in the run up to the night caused concern.

But none of that mattered when the gates to the event opened at 5pm and the crowds started to gather.

The family bonfire was lit at 6.30pm and the fireworks commenced at 8pm without a hitch.

Southport Hesketh Round Table president Dean Wilson said: “We’re really pleased with the turnout. We’re still counting now but it’s definitely in the thousands.

“It was a little muddy, due to the weather but people still came out. We got plenty of excellent comments on the fireworks from happy people on the way out and we had the biggest bonfire in Southport.

“Our VIP tent went down really well too with people complimenting the food and enjoying the hospitality. The views were really good from there too.”

People could be seen enjoying the fairground and the children’s entertainers, along with the hog roast and other refreshments on offer.

The event has been one of Southport’s biggest and best bonfire nights for more than a decade and has raised tens of thousands of pounds for local charities.

The organisation has supported numerous local good causes including Southport Lifeboat, Southport Samaritans,

Meols Cop Youth And Community Centre, Vital Signs Foundation, Southport Spinal Unit Action Group and Cancer Research UK.

Many local businesses were eager to show their support by purchasing VIP tickets.

Mr Wilson said: “We’d like to give a big thank you to our wonderful volunteers.

“There were over 50 of them on the night and it wouldn’t have been possible without them. We’d also like to thank all the local people who turned out too and local busi