The annual Blackburn with Darwen Charity Bonfire and firework display took place on Saturday 5 November, with the funfair again setting up at the usual venue on the main car park in Witton Country Park on Preston Old Road.
Organised jointly by Blackburn Lions, Blackburn Rotary Club and Round Table, entrance was by donation, with the proceeds going towards three chosen local charities. The event was so busy the bonfire and fireworks had to be delayed by half an hour as people were still queuing to get in, and extra volunteers were needed to take payment.
Michael Mulhearn once again organised an excellent funfair, and this year’s line-up was bigger than it has been for a number of years.
One reason was the cancellation of the Heaton Park bonfire, which meant that three of the attractions that would have been at Heaton Park attended here instead.
Blackburn Charity Bonfire attractions
The trio included Tony Litliernhurnest’s Super Bob and Superheroes The Ride plus the huge Police Station fun house from Triangle Attractions Ltd., which was making a first appearance in the town. In its first travelling season this attraction has proved very popular everywhere it’s been.
Another newcomer was Michael Mulhearn’s fine looking Ferris wheel, which was joined by his Sizzler Twist, Runaway Train, two cups & saucers and two catering kiosks. Regular attractions included JW Shaw Amusements’ Fighter Orbiter, mini jets and Toytown Racers, and Aaron Holland’s fun house and Snowman coaster.
It had rained on and off during the day, but by teatime this had stopped to leave a somewhat damp, cold and misty night. At least it stayed dry, which is a rarity, as in years gone by heavy rain has frequently put a dampener on proceedings.
