#Harlow: Thousands attend annual fireworks celebration in the park

07 Nov #Harlow: Thousands attend annual fireworks celebration in the park

A bumper crowd of around 18,000 people braved the cold weather last night (Sunday 6 November 2016) to enjoy Harlow Council’s annual firework and bonfire night celebrations in Harlow Town Park.

The annual event, which has been running for more than 40 years, was organised by Harlow Council with support from Great Parndon Community Association. The event is one of the biggest free admission fireworks display in the East of England.

The night’s celebrations began at 6pm with a new addition to the event, the Playhouse Harlow stage, which included performances from The Pauline Quirke Academy, Jersey Boys Tribute, Hip Hop Pop, Playhouse Panto, Harlow Ballet and Forever Jackson.

The Chair of Harlow Council, Councillor Edna Stevens, lit the bonfire at 6.45pm. A 20-minute spectacular fireworks display followed at 7pm which was accompanied by music. There was also a food and refreshments village but no funfair this year.

More than £386 was raised through donations for the Chair of the Council’s chosen charity – Friends of Harlow Sculpture and Gibberd Gallery and the Friends of the Leah Manning Centre raised £243 with a fundraising toffee apple stand.

Councillor Emma Toal, Portfolio Holder for Youth & Community, said: “This annual event continues to be one the biggest and best in the area and something Harlow is very proud of. By putting on a public display means that many local families can celebrate this occasion together in safety rather than organise their own events. It was very cold but this didn’t dampen local residents’ spirits as once again there was a huge crowd.
“We have received over 100 comments from residents on social media which have been very positive about the changes we made to this year’s event. It means so much that people have taken the time to let us know what they think and it makes all the effort to provide a great family event worth it. We are always looking at ways we can make this event even better and appreciate all the comments.

“Events like this would not happen if it wasn’t for the hard work on the day and throughout the evening of Council staff, stewards, volunteers and Great Parndon Community Association. I thank them for all their efforts and for putting together a great event for local families.”

Photos courtesy of: Brian Thomas Photography.