The bonfire and fireworks spectacular in York was the biggest and best yet, organisers say.
And it’s on course to raise a record amount for charity.
The event, at Rawcliffe Country Park on Saturday, saw thousands of people of all ages enjoy the pyrotechnics, funfair, stage entertainment hosted by YorkMix, and food and drink.
One of the organisers, retired firefighter Bruce Reid, described the night as “absolutely fantastic”.
It was the second year they had put on two displays – less noisy fireworks for younger children before the main fireworks later on.
And two companies, Sisk and Murphy, helped by providing things like tower lighting, toilets and temporary roadways, saving a lot of money.
It all helped to boost the total raised for the Fire Fighters Charity, who provide wellbeing support to members of the UK’s fire services and their families.
Bruce said: “Last year we we raised £20,000 for the for the Fire Fighters Charity. This year I’m comfortable that we will far exceed that figure.”
It’s the 14th year of the display. In the last five years alone it’s raise more than £150,000.
Bruce said he and co-organiser Terrence Gregg, of Acomb fire station, get a good feeling when everything comes together.
“We get a very good feel factor when everything works out.
“It’s something that we’ve created, and watching thousands of people in the field having a right good night, knowing quite a lot of money has been raised for the charity, it does make you feel very proud.”
But Bruce can’t relax – he’s already started planning next years fireworks event, which takes place on Saturday, 7 November 2026.
