Panto stars prepare to ignite giant dalek at fireworks spectacular

This giant dalek is about to find out what it’s like to be exterminated as York Maze prepares for its sell-out Bonfire Night extravaganza.

It will go up in flames as the maze’s bonfire is lit ahead of the fireworks on Tuesday (November 5). And there to see the 12ft high enemy of the Doctor torched will be the stars of the Barbican panto.

Dancing On Ice finalist Chloe Madeley, Coronation Street actor Danny Young and other members of the Dick Whittington cast will be on the fireworks stage counting down to the 7.30pm lighting of the bonfire and starting the fireworks at 8pm.

And young members of the York based Starbrite Dancentre school will be performing one of their song and dance routines from the pantomime.

“We are thrilled that some of the panto cast are able to join us on Bonfire Night,” said York Maze owner Tom Pearcy.

“They will be in charge of the big red button to ignite the giant dalek on the bonfire and start the fireworks show, which this year is choreographed to a soundtrack of songs based on Doctor and Who.”

The York Maze display is designed and fired by Alchemy Fireworks who have staged spectacular shows for many high profile events such as the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and Hampton Court Palace Flower Show.

More than a ton of explosives will light up the sky, including one of Britain’s biggest, a 10 inch mortar shell.