Forres Rotary Club requires more bonfire and fireworks volunteers at Grant Park following cancellations

The organisers of the biggest free, local event of the year are calling for more volunteers to help run it.

Forres bonfire and fireworks on Saturday night is coordinated by Forres Rotary Club’s Carlo Miele and his support team, who ensure it is fully staffed and safe for all.

Carlo has confirmed that, due to cancellations, they require additional adult volunteers to man a number of locations before and during the event.

He explained: “39 Engineer Regiment were to offer 12 volunteers but this has just been reduced to two due to deployment. Another civilian volunteer has also had to withdraw due to a bereavement.

“They were going to help with traffic management - barricading and diverting town centre traffic at South Street - and security - guarding the area behind the fireworks display on Cluny Hill.

“A number of 1st Forres Scouts offered to help instead but we really need able-bodied adults for these particular tasks.”

Forres Rotary volunteers and Inverurie-based Fireworx Scotland will introduce a 10 minute, low noise and impact display at 6.15pm. The bonfire will be lit at 6.30pm followed by the main fireworks at 7pm.

Volunteers are being asked to gather at the Soccer 7s’ pavilion in Grant Park at 5pm for instruction. Some will be issued with radios - these will be on separate frequencies from bucket collection volunteers.

Hi-viz vests will be issued to all volunteers, who are encouraged to bring torches if possible.

“We are all helping at a free event for our community that relies on donations to keep it going every year,” said Carlo. “No one is paid - even the fire service and first aiders are there out of generosity and the satisfaction that comes from doing their bit.

“However, there is a real feel good factor from seeing so many people - especially children - enjoying a safe event.”

Text Carlo on 07740683769 if you can help. Visit https://www.facebook.com/forresrotary for more information.