Oldham Edge getting ready for The Big Bang Civic Bonfire
Date published: 31 October 2017
On Board Arts- Raijin Storm - Oldham Big Bang Civic Bonfire
The final arrangements and running order for ‘The Big Bang’ bonfire at Oldham Edge have been confirmed.
Residents are invited to enjoy an evening of free entertainment at the grassed site, just outside Oldham town centre on Thursday (2 November).
Visitors to the bonfire are advised to wear appropriate footwear, wrap up warm, arrive early and use public transport, if possible, to avoid high demand on car parks.
The Oldham Edge site will open from 5pm with a funfair and food stalls. The fiery fun starts from 6pm onwards as the stage show begins and the bonfire is lit.
Double British firework champions ‘Fantastic Fireworks’ will be taking centre stage later with another masterclass in pyrotechnics choreographed to a carefully selected soundtrack.
New faces at this year’s event are Raijin Storm, ancient Japanese guardians who will be drumming up storms as they channel thundering rhythms to delight the crowds.
Flame Oz are headlining the show with another unrivalled ‘glow show’ display with a high energy fire dance and juggling extravaganza.
Elliot Eastwick, local breakfast show host at event partners Revolution 96.2, will be DJ for the proceedings leading up to the grand finale – a fireworks display visible across every corner of the borough from 7pm onwards.
The honour of pushing the button and starting that display once again goes to the winner of a competition for local children. Entries close at midnight on Tuesday 31 October - to enter, visit:
www.oldham.gov.uk/bonfire
Jean Stretton, Oldham Council Leader, said: “The Big Bang is part of our co-ordinated approach with Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) and partners in the annual Treacle campaign which aims to keep people safe from fires and injuries and nuisance.”
“Why bother spending your own money and taking risks with low-calibre fireworks in the back garden when you can be dazzled by the best fireworks professionals in the UK setting off high-grade ones in a stunning, safe and free display?
“There is a lot more to enjoy at The Big Bang too -the funfair, foodstalls and the brilliant line-up of entertainment at the stageshow make it the perfect family event.
“Oldham Council’s town centre car parks and on-street parking bays are all free on Thursday from 3pm onwards but there will be a big demand for spaces so arrive early. Please use public transport, if you can.
“Remember that the car parks closest to the site, like the Civic Centre and Bradshaw Street always fill up early. Also be aware there’s no parking at Oldham Edge.
“The bonfire site is just a few minutes’ walk from the town centre and our team of volunteers will be on hand to show you the easiest and quickest walking routes, which are via Henshaw Street (opposite the rear of Tommyfield Market) and Horsedge Street, passing Blue Coat school.”
Revolution 96.2 is covering the build-up to the Big Bang on air during the day on 96.2FM, including the latest weather and parking information.
Alcohol, sparklers, fireworks and fires will not be permitted on site and will be confiscated. Children under 16-years-old must be accompanied by a responsible adult. No dogs, except assistance dogs, are allowed on site.
The fireworks will finish at around 7.30pm but the fairground and attractions will stay open until 8pm.
Anyone planning to take up free parking at Oldham Council-owned car parks should note that pay and display machines will be ‘bagged over’ so you do not n eed to take a ticket from 3pm onwards. On-street bays are also free during this period – these are not bagged over and do not need to take a ticket.
