Sunderland Echo

MAMMA MIA! WHAT A SPARKLING DISPLAY

- by Poppy Kennedy poppy.kennedy@jpress.co.uk Twitter: @reporterPo­ppy

Thousands of families flocked to Seaham for its annual fireworks spectacula­r – and this year the theme got the crowds dancing.

From fire breathers to fairground rides, there was something to entertain the whole family at the annual event.

An estimated 15,000 people descended on Seaham seafront last nightfor the Mamma Mia-themed display as the event continues to grow year on year.

Dianne Rickaby, town clerk for Seaham Town Council, said: “It’s amazing, it’s been an absolutely amazing night .

“Seaham Town Council put this event on free of charge for the community and it’s been a fabulous night with a great atmosphere.

“I just want to say a big thank you from me to the whole team who planned this event.

“It’s been packed tonight and we estimate that there’s around 15,000 people here tonight. It’s brilliant to see so many people enjoying themselves.

“I’m very proud of the team, everyone worked so hard to provide this free event.”

The annual event takes months to plan as fairground rides, street food vans and stalls flocked to the seafront.

Two fire breathers attracted a huge crowd as their daredevil act wowed children and adults alike.

Zoe Dale, 22, travels from Shotton Colliery with husband John and children Jack and Thomas to attend the event every year.

“It’s a real family event. Jack and Thomas love the fireworks. This is our first fireworks display of the year because we also go to Peterlee and Shotton Colliery, but Seaham is our favourite.

“My mam and dad use to bring me when I was younger.”

Families from across the county travelled to the town to join in the festivitie­s.

Mark Knights, who lives in Stanley, County Durham, brought children Ashton, 10, and Brogan, eight, along to last night’s event.

“We have never really been here before,” he said.

“It’s packed and there’s a great atmosphere here. The kids are loving it.”

But the event is also an annual occasion for many local residents.

Louise Kenyon, who lives in Seaham, said: “We come along every year. For there to be an event like this in Seaham is great.

“We can walk down and it saves us going elsewhere when it’s on our doorstep. “It’s a really great night.” The annual event is organised by Seaham Town Council.

“For there to be an event like this in Seaham is great” LOUISE KENYON

 ??  ??
 ??  ?? Jack, three, and Thomas Dale, four, at Seaham’s fireworks display last night. Below, fire eaters perform.
Jack, three, and Thomas Dale, four, at Seaham’s fireworks display last night. Below, fire eaters perform.
 ??  ??
 ??  ?? Crowds at Seaham fireworks. Inset right, Ashton and sister Brogan Knights.
Crowds at Seaham fireworks. Inset right, Ashton and sister Brogan Knights.
 ??  ?? One of the entertaine­rs.
One of the entertaine­rs.

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from United Kingdom