Lions Club’s annual fireworks display at Newbury Racecourse: Tickets on sale now

Planning is well underway for this year’s much-loved annual fireworks display at Newbury Racecourse, writes Ollie Basham.

The event has been organised by Newbury Lions since 1973 and celebrated its 50th year in style in 2023.

But now the group of organisers has reduced to just 14 and they are calling on locals to volunteer to help ensure things go with a whizz, pop and a bang come November.

They are also seeking more sponsors to help ensure as much of the profits as possible can be given over to those in need.

Thousands of families – some now bringing a fourth generation – have enjoyed the displays over the past five decades, while thousands of others have benefitted from the vital funds it helps to raise.

The Lions have raised more than £50,000 in the past two years alone, which goes back into the community to support local causes.

In the past few years the club has been instrumental in providing assistance to individuals through its Welfare Fund, but calls for support have sky-rocketed.

President Adrian Ho said “We have a number of local businesses who have loyally supported us for many years now, but their sponsorship covers just the cost of printing the tickets, for example.

“We are very grateful for their continued help but could do with additional sponsors if we are to continue to stage the event.

“Newbury Lions receive requests for help from all corners of the community and do not discriminate or specialise in one area.

“We are hoping that this is not a barrier for sponsors who may prefer their funding to go to a more specific area of need.”

As well as looking for sponsors, Newbury Lions also need a large number of volunteers to help with the set-up, support at the event and also, most importantly, to clear the site on the following morning.

Anyone who may be able to help is asked to contact them by emailing fireworks@newburylions.org.uk

This year’s Charity Fireworks Spectacular will be held on Saturday, November 2 at Newbury Racecourse.

Gates will open at 5pm and the display will start at approximately 7.30pm.

There will be the usual Lions BBQ and bar plus other food outlets and a funfair to keep everyone amused until the spectacular display begins.

Tickets are on sale now online at www.seetickets.com and will soon be available in the usual town centre outlets.

You can also find more details on the Newbury Lions Fabulous Fireworks Facebook page.