Forres fireworks night goes with a bang

AROUND 4500 people enjoyed the bonfire and fireworks display at Grant Park on Saturday night, despite the wind and rain.

And organisers Rotary Club of Forres confirmed the community's generous donations to bucket collections means that the event will go ahead next November.

Local businessman Carlo Miele is the Rotary's winter activities convenor.

He said: "Folk usually start arriving at around 5.45pm but this year it was more like 7pm as they back to see if the weather got any worse. There was a sudden influx of attendees at the start of the firework display which caused a wee bit of a logistical problem but overall everything went well.

"Last year there were between 5-6000 attendees. There were probably 4-5000 folk this year – we gauge by looking at the number of heads in the crowd when it's lit up by the fireworks. The smaller number this year was down to the weather – I think a lot of people presumed it would be cancelled but we couldn't do that to the kids. As Billy Connolly once said: There's no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong clothing, get yourself a raincoat and live a little!"

He added: "If we didn't host the event at Grant Park there would be smaller ones all over Forres and fireworks being set off everywhere!"

The bonfire, which was topped by Guys provided by local children, was lit at 6.30pm before the fireworks display set to musical songs planned by contractor Fireworx Scotland. Attending families also enjoyed catering facilities and showfair attractions.

The organisers asked that everyone refrain from bringing sparklers to the event.

"The number of sparklers left at the park was dramatically reduced," said Mr Miele. "We appreciated so many people adhering to the requests of local children, so thank you.

"We would also like to thank everyone else that turned out and all the businesses that supported us. See you next year!"