THE Arbroath fireworks display is set to come back with a bang this year — thanks to community fundraising.
There were no annual Bonfire Night celebrations in the town last November, prompting an outcry from disappointed residents.
But since then, a group called Fireworks for Arbroath has been set up to bring the event back and has raised £6,000.
Fireworks For Arbroath chairwoman Karen Cuthill said: “We’re so pleased and thankful for everyone’s efforts and donations.
“This event has been run and funded by the community.
“We’re making it all about a good old fireworks display, with no distractions like stalls or a funfair.
“We just want people to enjoy the fireworks — this is what the night is all about.
“It also makes it more affordable for people who might be put off by the cost of having to pay for food or fairground rides.
“We’re not charging people to come, but we will be collecting donations on the night.
“This will allow us to keep it going next year too.”
In the years before 2014, the fireworks evening was organised by Arbroath West and Letham councillor David Fairweather, separate from his official duties.
However, after his main volunteer group retired, he said the stress of hosting the celebrations was too much for him.
And there was no one available to organise the fireworks last year leading to disappointment for people in the town.
Karen added: “We would like to thank everyone who donated, sponsored us or gave their time. Our sponsor business pledgers of £250 each are The Koko Bean Cupcakes, Blackadders Solicitors and Q-Ticlez & Tan’z.
“We also got a grant of £900 from Angus Council for merchandising.”
The group’s online mission statement added: “As The Fireworks for Arbroath Committee, it is our goal to bring back a safe and professionally organised annual fireworks display for the community of Arbroath, and surrounding local area.
“Having one big organised display down by the seafront will not only be great for the kids of the local community and surrounding areas, it will also hopefully cause less distress to pets and less disturbance to people who do not wish to partake.
“We feel its important to bring not only our town, but our surrounding local communities together, and bring back a sense of pride and community spirit due to the fact that we did this ourselves!”
The fireworks display will be held at Inchcape Park, 6.30 for 7pm, on Saturday November 7.
A total of £6,000 has been raised.