Crowds of up to 100,000 are expected to pack onto Blackheath this Saturday to watch the event that has been taking place for over 30 years.
This weekend sees the return of the South East of England’s largest fireworks display that has kept people ablaze with enthusiasm since it started over 30 years ago.
Over the course of the day, the assembled mass will have much to entertain them, including the return of the annual funfair to make time fly by, before the sky is illuminated for thousands to enjoy the spectacle of fireworks travelling at up to 150mph. Surprisingly, for fireworks of Blackheath’s calibre, this event is one of the only of its kind to have remained free.
Free to enter perhaps, but in 2009, £104,000 was dedicated to pulling off this celebration. The cost was spread over the boroughs of Lewisham and Greenwich as the heath is managed by both organisations. However, in 2010, Greenwich withdrew its £37,000 funding, causing massive issues for Lewisham council who now have to make up the shortfall.
The increased pressure for funds means that on the night, volunteers, Lewisham council staff and police cadets will all be collecting donations to help secure the 2016 event.
Bonfire night is one of the most celebrated nights in the UK. Until 1959, it was illegal not to celebrate this occasion, though, since the lifting of this law, enthusiasm for it has not waned and celebrations this weekend, will be taking place up and down the country. Despite the cost, many people think that life in London just wouldn’t be the same without Blackheath's iconic display. Catherine Smith, a teacher at a local school, said, “the fireworks are an annual tradition that help to bring the community together.”
Over time, fireworks have become an irreplaceable part of many celebrations; now is the time to enjoy them at their best, so where ever you are going, make sure your night goes with a bang!
By Sofia Cotterill
Newstead Wood School
