Hitchin’s town Guy Fawkes Fireworks are to return this year – and there’ll be a beer tent, bonfire and much more.
Tickets for the November 5 display at Hitchin Priory, run by community company Ladder 87 alongside Skyfiller Fireworks, go on sale on Monday.
The Ladder 87 team, owners of much-loved Hitchin fire engine Dennis, have stepped up to organise the fireworks for the first time this year, alongside the Hitchin BID.
Founder Michelle Hoskin told the Comet that Ladder 87 was all about building community spirit – and that combining their fire engine with fireworks seemed a fitting way to spread the message.
“Anything we do, we try to give back to the community in any way we can,” said Michelle, 39.
“Our message is about children understanding they’re part of the community, even if they’re just five years old – and that makes a difference.
“A lot of what we do at parties is core stuff about what to do in an emergency – calling 999 and not hiding in cupboards. Children do remember this stuff.
“We get approached in random places by families who remember our message.”
The Ladder 87 crew run events like parties for children, and last year organised Hitchin’s Christmas light switch-on.
They are to set to invite schools and other groups to create Guys for a display in Market Place on November 4 – with any donations going to good causes.
A collection will be taken at the fireworks display to support Hitchin boy Stanley Patterson – whose battle with a rare disease has inspired for the Kawasaki Kid cartoon hero – and his family’s fundraising for charity Societi.
The Ladder 87 team hope to run the Christmas switch-on again this December, and put on a community event next summer.
Town centre manager Keith Hoskins is among those excited to see fireworks at the Priory.
He said: “I’m delighted to see a traditional family firework event back in town. Very many thanks to Ladder 87 for taking up the challenge and to Hitchin Priory for allowing use of their grounds – it does make it very special.”
Tickets for the fireworks on November 5 cost £6 each in advance, with under-14s at £3 each and a £14 family ticket offered for two adults and two under-14s.
You can also pay on the gate from 5pm on the night, but the prices will be slightly higher. The display will start at 7pm.
For more about the fireworks, see ladder87company.com and hitchinfireworks.co.uk.
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