A SPECTACULAR firework display and bonfire held at Old Reigatian RFC for Guy Fawkes Night certainly attracted the crowds.
The club has organised fireworks events in the past but have always kept them closed to members. After hearing that a couple of well-known local displays had decided to not put on a show this year the ORRFC events committee decided to open their doors to the public and they didn’t regret the decision. Within days of going on sale tickets were sold out and a waiting list was operational.
Constructed from trees which had to be made safe by removal, the bonfire had been on display to members in the weeks leading up to the event and on the night was lit by newly appointed Club President, Nick Harrison.
In a break from the norm, the fireworks were set off from the first team pitch (the joy of having Grounds Manager Peter Bakker in charge of them), allowing the spectators an incredible view from in front of the clubhouse as well as beside the fire. The weather conditions were just right for the event and feedback on the display has been incredible.
After the show live music was provided by local band Parallel Sky (facebook.com/PSkyBand) who got crowd members, young and old, dancing to a mixture of music old and new.
Through the sale of tickets, food, drink, sweets, popcorn and balloon models the event has not only raised money toward improving the floodlights at the club but also for charities YoungMinds and SportinMS.
Club Secretary (and event organiser), Kate Birinder-Ross, said: “It was great to see so many people enjoying themselves as a family. We were determined to make it a safe and fun event for all and I am sure we achieved just that. We have learnt lessons for next year and we will definitely be back for more.”
“I am massively grateful to everyone who helped make this possibly but especially to those volunteers who gave up their time to help pull the whole thing off.”
Photo Credit Seb Oliver.
