Sky lights up in dazzling display

Photo: Anthony Miller

LIGHTING up the Big Bang Bonfire stage, the spectacular act Flame Oz

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A FIREWORK extravaganza filled Oldham's skies with fun last night as thousands turned out despite the wet weather.

Stars, bombettes, flares and comets were among the colourful combination to be enjoyed by residents at the Big Bang Bonfire.

The free event at Oldham Edge featured a choreographed fire dance performance by Flame Oz and was hosted by Elliot Eastwick of Revolution 96.2.

Visitors enjoyed fairground rides, food stalls and several acts on the main stage from 5pm before double British champions Fantastic Fireworks kickstarted the display at 7pm.

Linda Achilles (51) from Hollinwood said: "We haven't been before and it is fantastic - the fireworks are brilliant and everyone is enjoying themselves."

Scarlet Loms (8) said: "I enjoyed the bonfire the most.

"We went on the Spinner ride and it went really fast."

Family-run Gores Amusements provided several rides for the event including hook-a-duck, the Sizzler, the Mexican Wave, a Disney ferris wheel and jumping jack.

Owner Brinley Gore (50) said: "My family has put on the rides for Oldham's fireworks since the early 1970s when it was held in Alexandra Park.

"I remember coming as a kid.

"It is nice to come and entertain and put a smile on the kids' faces because a lot of people can't afford to go away so it is good to bring the entertainment to them and hopefully they come and enjoy it.

"The weather was a bit against us but we had great support from the Oldham people."

Dozens of wooden palettes were set alight to create a large bonfire behind the main stage.

Paul McGarry (30) said: "The bonfire is great and it's keeping us warm.

"It is a good atmosphere and really upbeat."

Other acts who performed on stage included Halos with their captivating light show and Oldham-based Brazilian band Juba de Leao.

The fireworks were launched by seven-year-old Jenson Hickey who pressed the big red button after the crowd counted down from 10.

Keith Ashforth (72) from Littlemoor said: "They have put a very good night on.

"I am glad the rain stopped.

"It was a very good show and nice to see so many people enjoying it."

Oldham Council organised the large-scale event alongside partner 96.2FM The Revolution, with the help of sponsor First Choice Homes Oldham.

A 15-minute pyrotechnics 'Big Bang' display wowed the crowds with its sci-fi theme, background narration and popular tunes from movies Independence Day, ET and Star Wars among others.

Fatou Bah said: "It 's wet but it hasn't stopped us."

• See more pictures of bonfires on our picture sales page.