What year did Lions fireworks start?

PLANNING is well under way for this year’s charity fireworks display at the racecourse on Saturday, November 5.

Newbury Lions have been organising this event for at least 47 years and in that time it has grown from a small event with a bonfire and fireworks set off by members, to the professional display to music that attracts people in their thousands today. In all that time, apart from lockdown during the Covid-19 pandemic, the display has never been cancelled, despite some inclement weather. Vice-president Margo Payne is trying to find out when the event was first staged and has so far discovered that it took place in 1974.

Margo, as the daughter of a Lion, can remember helping out as a teenager herself.

We know that many people have been coming to the event for years, first as small children and now bringing their own children and grandchildren.

We’d like to hear from anyone who can remember if they came along before 1974 as we want to make sure we have a really big celebration when we get to 50. Unlike other commercial displays, all proceeds from this event are used to support people in need throughout the year when they need it most.

After an amazing turnout last year, Newbury Lions are anxious to make sure everyone has a safe, enjoyable and comfortable experience at this year’s event. As such, we are making the display an all-ticket event and will be restricting numbers allowed.

It will not be possible to pay on the gate so you are advised to get your tickets early. Prices will be £10 for adults, £5 for children and a family ticket (two adults plus two children or one adult and up to four children) for £20.

Tickets are now available online at Eventbrite and at Tesco stores in Newbury and Thatcham, branches of Newbury Building Society and Lions market stalls in late October.

If you have any information about the history of Newbury Lions fireworks, please contact the Lions on fireworks@newburylions.org. uk

JUDITH COLBY

Newbury Lions