Saturday 7th November marked Dartford’s fireworks night in Central Park, organised by the Dartford Lions Club for over 40 years, the event went down as a ‘record night in the club’s history’ said club president Barbara Whitehead.
With a range of different stalls run by local businesse’s, and charity groups, selling food and gifts. Also Forrests fun fair. All kept very busy throughout the evening. The highlight of the event as every year was the huge bonfire, which was then followed by the fantastic firework display, lasting 20 mins.
The construction of the bonfire started at 8.30am on Friday morning, when the first loads of wood donated by local businesses and residents began to arrive. A team of 12 volunteers from the club began unloading the wood which continued until approx 6 pm. Saturday morning saw the final preparations take place with banners, signage, radio checks and the final event briefing before the gates opened at approx. 5pm.
The bonfire was lit at 7.15pm by the Mayor of Dartford Cllr. Ian Armit, as crowds of thousands stood and watched the fire take place. it wasn’t long before the sky’s above central park were lit bright with the flames of the fire. Crowds continued to pour into the park right up to the start of the firework display, which was at 8pm.
Chief Organiser for the Lions Club, Graham Illsley said “This event ran very, very smoothly, I’ve been involved with the firework display for over six years and each year we are getting better and better. I must add that our club is growing each year, and the support from volunteers, and other Lions from other groups, is a key element to our success. We would like to thank everyone who supported us for this event!”
Club President, Barbara Whitehead added “Each year, every penny of the money we raise is used to help local groups, or individual’s, we also give donations towards many national and international causes, or disaster’s. Events organised by us are the only way we raise, the funds that we are able to give. The fantastic support of Dartford residents and local groups is exceptional, for which we are deeply grateful”.