Previous firework spectaculars have attracted thousands of visitors.

Fireworks show to dazzle Leigh Park once again

The community has come together to raise enough money for the Leigh Park fireworks to continue for another year.

The annual firework spectacular on Stockheath Common, Leigh Park is returning once again this year, following Havant Borough Council withdrawing its funding for 2018.

A community group was established in November last year, Friends of Stockheath Common Fireworks (FSCF), to raise money to ensure the annual show continues.

FSCF decided to start the fundraising because families would miss out on seeing fireworks on bonfire night, and that this was the chance to provide fireworks, once again on residents’ doorsteps.

It had a deadline of September 29 to raise £6,120, which it managed to accomplish after being able to reach more than 35,000 people on social media.

There were many fundraising events throughout the year, including The Heron’s fun day at the beginning of September. The pub, in Havant, raised £632 that day and had collections throughout the year.

Craig Cockram, 51, who is the chairman of FSCF, said The Heron was fantastic at fundraising and that he couldn’t thank them enough.

Family fun day at The Heron was a great success — raising £632 for the event.

Another special mention was given to the One Stop in West Leigh, which had charity buckets all year.

He added: ‘We would like to thank everyone who contributed in making the fireworks happen again.

‘The community has got together and shown that every penny counts.’

He stressed they will ideally have all the donations in by June 2019, in order to prepare for next year’s event.

Craig said: ‘Thousands of people come to the event, so if visitors could spare a quid on the night, that would be greatly appreciated.

‘We aim to raise half of the money needed for next year’s event, so we are prepared and can make it bigger and better for everyone coming along.’

The firework spectacular is held on November, 5 and will begin at 7pm. The event will be slightly smaller than usual, and not include the traditional bonfire, due to expenses. Food stalls and side stalls will also be dotted around the event.