York fireworks spectacular planned at Rawcliffe Country Park

York will host a fireworks display and bonfire in Rawcliffe this year, thanks to the city’s firefighters and council.

The event will take place at Rawcliffe Country Park on Saturday, November 8, 2014.

The Fire Fighters Charity firework display will showcase more than just pyrotechnics, but carry a fire safety message too.

Off-duty firefighters have volunteered to train to help at the event which will include a display of fire service equipment, including a fire engine.

Music and marching will be performed by the North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service Pipe Band.

The event will raise money for the Fire Fighters Charity which provides support to fire fighters and their families who need help, whether to recover from injury or trauma, or to deal with problems like debt, addiction or bereavement.

City of York Council has waived its costs for the event.

“This will be a brilliant showcase for our fire service and a timely safety reminder, a chance for us to support a very worthwhile charity as well as a fantastic event to celebrate Bonfire Night,” said Cllr Sonja Crisp, cabinet member for leisure, culture and tourism.

Organisers hope that people will attend the event from across the area, and so reduce the number of accidents and injuries associated with amateur garden displays.

Kaboom moves out of town

Last year, fireworks specialists Kaboom staged a fireworks display at Rawcliffe Country Park.

They have moved out to Castle Howard for their display this year, which takes place on Saturday, November 1. It will celebrates the 30th anniversary of classic movie Ghostbusters, and it was launched with the help of a 30ft inflatable Stay Puft Marshmallow Man, who strode the streets of New York in the film.

“It’s one of the most unusual visitors we’ve ever had and it’s great fun,” said Katie Pryor, head of events at Castle Howard.

“Visitors to Kaboom can expect entertainment for all the family. Not only will the house facade be illuminated with coloured light projections, but it will become the historic backdrop for a blaze of fabulous fireworks.”