British Firework Championships return - with a new prize being awarded
This year will include a new 'Young People’s Choice Award'
Last updated 16th Aug 2023
The British Firework Championships start tonight in Plymouth.
The competition involves six teams competing over two nights at the free-to-watch event.
Charlotte Winship, Event Manager for The Event Services Association said: “This is our 26th year and each gets bigger and better.
"The competitors have been planning their displays all year and will be pulling out all the stops to give you a thrilling spectacle on both nights.
"The safety and wellbeing of all is paramount and we want everyone to enjoy the fireworks safely whether on land or water.
"Be mindful of each other and please follow the advice and instructions of the event stewards and safety team so we can keep everyone safe.”
Councillor Jemima Laing, Deputy Leader of the Council, Cabinet Member for Events at Plymouth City Council and Portfolio Holder for the Council’s Children, Young People and Families Service, said: “We’re really proud to be giving a voice to care-experienced young people with the new Young People’s Choice Awards at this nationally significant event and thank Citybus for their support in making this happen”.
Another first for 2023, each evening the live music and fireworks commentary will be BSL signed, in a bid to make the event more accessible to a wider audience.
A statement from Plymouth Harbour Authorities said: "Last year, during the fireworks displays, within the Cattewater and Plymouth Sound numerous cases of excessive alcohol and substance misuse onboard observing craft were reported, resulting in a number of near miss incidents, including persons in the water. These could have easily resulted in more serious consequences if the marshalling boats were not on station to assist casualties.
"Alcohol can stop you thinking clearly, affect your co-ordination and suppress your natural response to fear and threats. Mariners under the influence may receive a criminal record, as well as potentially facing a fine up to ÂŁ1000 plus legal costs."
Daryl McMullan, Managing Director of Complete Communications said, “Everyone at Complete Communications is so excited to work with Plymouth City Council this year to make the British Firework Championships accessible to deaf and disabled people. We are passionate about making Plymouth, Devon and Cornwall accessible to all, and this is a huge step forward in achieving this”.
The Fairground and Catering stalls will open to the public on Plymouth Hoe from 2pm and live entertainment on stage from 5pm until 8.45pm on both nights.
The event is sponspored by Brittany Ferries with the new Young People’s Choice Award, sponsored by Plymouth Citybus.
Everything you need to know can be found here