Newbury Racecourse fireworks celebrating 50 years with Newbury Lions Club’s Fabulous Fireworks Fantasia
Newbury Lions Club is celebrating 50 fabulous years of fireworks.
And as part of the celebrations this year, the voluntary organisation – which raises money for those in the need in the community – is calling on residents to share their memories from the past half a century of displays.
Any photographs or memories will then be showcased on a memory board at the Fabulous Fireworks Fantasia, which is again being held at Newbury Racecourse, on Saturday, November 4.
Lions Club president Margo Payne said she remembers going to the fireworks as a teenager, with her now husband John, and entertaining the crowds as part of the East Woodhay Silver Band.
She added: “My father joined Lions in the early 1970s and I helped at all their events, including fireworks.
“Apart from playing in the band, I used to help my dad count all the cash at the end of the evening, which seemed to take ages!
“I have taken my children when they were young and they now bring my grandchildren along.
“I was pleased to attend the Lions Fireworks when I was Mayor of Newbury and I am proud to be president of the club in this 50th anniversary year.”
The very first display was held at Newbury Racecourse in November 1973 and it saw the beginning of a “long and successful partnership between Lions and Newbury Racecourse”.
This year’s fireworks display will offer all the usual food and drink stalls, including sweet treats and a licensed bar.
There will also be a fun fair and children’s entertainment in the grandstand.
There is free parking on site and gates open at 5pm, with the fireworks set to begin around 7.30pm.
All tickets must be bought in advance and cost £12 for adults; £6 for children (five to 16 years); and £25 for families.
All money raised at this year’s award-winning charity event, which is run entirely by volunteers, will be used to help those in need in the community throughout the year.
Since last year’s event, the Lions Club has donated more than £50,000 to individuals and families in need in the community.
The Lions Club is appealing to anyone who has photographs or memories they are willing to share to get in touch by emailing Mrs Payne on president@newburylions.org.uk.
More details of the event can be found online at www.newburyfireworks.org.uk or on the Lions’ Facebook page.