Fireworks to light up Southport sky

Oct 5 2007

FIREWORKS weighing the equivalent of five Mini cars will light up Southport’s skies this weekend as the town prepares to welcome around 60,000 visitors.

Around six tonnes of colourful pyrotechnics will be blasted into the air over three spectacular evenings as part of the British Musical Fireworks Championships.

Southport’s Kings Gardens, overlooking the Marine Lake, will be the setting for the firework festival from tonight to Sunday.

During the annual Championships, six top pyrotechnic companies from across the UK illuminate the Southport skyline with displays choreographed to a backdrop of music.

An estimated 60,000 people are expected to attend the three-night event which is being held slightly later in the year than previous championships, enabling an earlier launch time so children can enjoy the show.

Event organiser, Carolyn Lowry, of Sefton’s tourism department, said: “It’s amazing to think the weight of five Mini cars in fabulous fireworks will be blasted into the skies of Southport at the weekend.

“Six great competitors will go head-to-head at the British Musical Fireworks Championships which promises to be three evenings of great entertainment.”

Each night, two exciting musical displays from the UK’s top professional firework companies will be staged. casting magnificent reflections across the lake.

Each display lasts around 20 minutes, and an eventual winner will be announced on the final evening of the championships.

Before the competition starts, a show entitled Lake of Dreams will be performed for the crowds.

The Lake of Dreams will be presented by previous competition winners and British Fireworks “Champion of Champions” Jubilee Fireworks.

Gates open each evening at 7pm for the 7.30pm start with tickets costing £4 in advance or £5 on the gate.

Entry is free for those aged under five.

For details, including how to buy tickets, call 01704 533333 or visit www.visit southport.com.