Fireworks will go with a bang at the East of England Showground this year – drive-in style.
As around 90 percent of displays have been pulled this year, including Peterborough’s usual fireworks spectacular, the city will get to see a huge display after all.
The unique drive-in style display will enable a socially distanced event to go ahead on Saturday November 7.
The East of England Showground usually hosts an annual firework event which can attract up to 15,000 visitors and although numbers for this event will be limited it will mean we get to enjoy a 20 minute long display choreographed to music.
The socially distanced drive-in spectacular has been organised by Martin Allen from Entertainment Effects Group Ltd in collaboration with radio presenter Kev Lawrence, formerly of Heart and BBC Radio Cambridgeshire, now hosting the breakfast show on PCR FM which will broadcast the event on air.
Kev Lawrence PCR FM. Picture by Terry Harris.
Kev told ESP – “I’m so pleased that a covid safe display like this has been organised. It’s been such a tough year for so many, especially children. And with many events being cancelled, it’s awesome that Peterborough families can load up the car and head out together for a night of safe firework fun.
“It’ll probably be a night to remember for years and years to come as it’s unique. And for those families booking it perhaps gives them something special to look forward to.
“Broadcasting the whole thing on PCR FM, I can’t wait to keep everyone entertained and informed in the build up to the fireworks being launched. We will do a special 2 hour show dedicated completely to the event culminating in the music that’s linked to the choreographed display.
“It’s what local radio is all about – supporting brilliant community led events like this.”
There are 1,000 tickets available online (1,000 tickets circa 4,000 people) priced at £25 per car, some £20 early bird, some £35 in a VIP viewing area.
Donations from the event will be going to Peterborough charities yet to be confirmed.
To make sure the event is kept covid safe a number of measures will be in place. You’ll drive onto the site, have your tickets scanned by stewards wearing visors and gloves. Each car will be given a flyer with event specific details including site map, sponsors, FM frequency, and other details to reduce the need to contact stewards for questions.
Cars will then be directed to a parking space and once parked everyone will need to stay within touching distance of their car with stewards circulating to monitor that this is happening. Toilets will have monitored 2m spaced queuing systems and be cleaned regularly.
Event organiser Martin Allen says: “We are really excited to be able to provide our choreographed display to the residents of Peterborough. The audience can view from a covid safe viewing area next to their car where they can shelter from the November weather if need be. With the unique element of having the radio broadcasting directly to each vehicle it will enable everyone to engage with the event and enjoy the stunning display.”
The radio broadcast will last for 2 hours including dedications, competitions and will play the display music to which the fireworks will be choreographed.
For tickets go to https://www.driveinfireworks.uk/
Photos: Previous Firework Fiesta events by Chris Brudenell.
Image of Kev Lawrence: Terry Harris