Big bang bonfire is a huge hit

Hot entertainment at the ‘Big Bang’ bonfire.

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THOUSANDS of Oldhamers braved bracing conditions to help the civic bonfire go off with a Big Bang.

Pyrotechnics, fire jugglers and Brazilian beats as well as a fairground, traditional food and event host 96.2 The Revolution presenter Big Al kept the 15,000 strong crowd entertained.

Fantastic Fireworks laid on a dazzling display of stars, bombettes, candles, cakes, mines, shells, sky fillers, flares and comets accompanied by a blockbuster soundtrack including songs from “Doctor Who”, “X Files”, “ET”, “Star Trek”, “Star Wars”, “Independence Day” and” War of the Worlds”.

The Juggling Inferno team kept the crowd entertained with a stunning combination of fire-juggling, fire-eating and fire-dancing while uplifting drumming drills from Oldham-based band Juba do Leao helped to ward off the cold.

Street artists walked among the revellers to keep spirits high and generous helpings of black-eyed peas, treacle toffee and parkin from on site food stalls went down a treat.

The event closed with a 10 minute musical blast of featuring tracks by well known Oldhamers including Inspiral Carpets, Take That, The Courteeners and D:Ream.

Host Big Al said: "It really was a fantastic event that built on the success of last year. Last year, 14,000 people turned up and there were definitely more than that at last night's event. It was great to see so many families out having fun and the best bit is it was all free. I was honoured to be the host and I would like to congratulate Oldham Council and everyone else involved for organising such a brilliant bonfire. Roll on next year."

Council leader Jim McMahon, who took sons Jack and Harry, said: "Its events like this that put the heart back into Oldham. So many happy, smiling families everywhere. I'm proud and delighted with this event which showcased everything great about our borough."

Councillor Shoab Akhtar, cabinet member for business and town centres, said: “I would like to thank everyone who attended this brilliant event — and all the volunteers and staff who were involved in helping to put on such a stunning evening.

“We worked very hard with partners First Choice Homes and 92FM The Revolution to deliver a feel-good family night and the feedback we’ve had from people has been really positive.
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