This year’s Fireshow in Carlisle was enjoyed by an audience of more than 40,000 people.
Organised by Cumberland Council, the Bitts Park event was themed on a Festival of Fire.
In addition to a spectacular bonfire, more than 2,000 spectacular sparkling fireworks lit up the sky. A Fireshow village, held in Castle car park, was an added attraction, offering food and family entertainment.
It was the 35th Fireshow event and was organised in conjunction with Merlin Fireworks Ltd.
Councillor Anne Quilter, Cumberland Council’s Executive Member for Vibrant and Healthy Places, said:
“The Fireshow attracts an audience from across our area, bringing communities together to have fun in a safe environment. It never disappoints, and this year’s event was a great success. I’d like to thank all those that made it happen. It’s taken months of preparation and it was made possible with the support of local businesses and organisations.
“Thanks also to our amazing events team, stewards, and Merlin Fireworks for putting on such a great show. The event was also supported by emergency services including the police, fire and ambulance.
“Local businesses and organisations have also provided support: Brampton Pallets, Cabletech (Edmundson Electrical), Carlisle Rotary Club, CRFM, Cumbria Building Supplies, Evri, Johnstone’s Decorating Centre, Pro Turf Leisure Ltd, T G Norman Timber Ltd, Travis Perkins and Wallace Oils.
“Also, thanks to the Cumbria Army Cadet Force - Harraby Detachment who are kindly going to assist us with litter picking after the event.”
Visitors to this year’s Carlisle Fireshow were asked to dig into the bottom of their pockets and support local charities. Although the event is free to attend, a charity collection is held each year. All donations go towards the Rotary in Carlisle (which donates most of its fundraising efforts to local good causes), and Pancreatic Cancer UK, the charity supported by the Chair of Cumberland, Cllr Andy Semple and the Mayor of Carlisle, Chris Southward’s chosen charity - Eden Valley Hospice.
A Taste Cumbria producers’ market is also being held in the Carlisle Cathedral grounds over the Fireshow weekend.
The event includes 40 food and drink traders, live music on the festival stage, hot food stalls, children’s activities and face painting, street theatre and fire-themed entertainment.
Stalls are open between 11am and 4pm today (Sunday 3 November).