Fireworks cash call to make Burnham sparkle (From This is The West Country)

Fireworks cash call to make Burnham sparkle

11:30am Saturday 13th October 2012 in Somerset

BUSINESSES are being urged to dip into their pockets to make sure Burnham’s fireworks display goes off with a bang.

The display on the beach is held the day before Highbridge and Burnham Carnival and always draws a huge crowd.

Burnham and Highbridge Town Council has written to businesses to ask them if they can contribute to this year’s event, on Sunday, November 11.

A town council spokesman said: “The town council took over the running of the event from the district council several years ago and for the last three years we’ve written to businesses asking for their support.

“We have sent letters to local businesses and caravan parks which benefit from people coming to the town for the carnival and the fireworks weekend.

“So far, we’ve had donations totalling £1,000 from Home Farm, Retreat Caravan Park and Newcombe Caravan Park, which we are very grateful for. If any other businesses wish to donate, that would be welcome.

“We are advertising the event and we will be mentioning the donors on our advertising leaflets.”

The council spokesman added: “The display is costing £9,000 but in the past it has cost £11,000 because we’ve had to put scaffolding up. This year the tide will be out so the display can go ahead on the beach, which saves some money.”

Because this year’s event coincides with Remembrance Sunday, the display will include red ‘poppy’ fireworks.

Burnham Chamber of Trade secretary Kay Rossiter said having the carnival and fireworks display on successive nights draws many extra visitors to Burnham and Highbridge.

She said: “It’s a particular boost for food and drink places.”