EASTNOR CASTLE FIREWORK CHAMPIONS 2016

WHAT: EASTNOR CASTLE FIREWORK CHAMPIONS
WHEN: SATURDAY 3RD SEPTEMBER 2016
WHERE: EASTNOR CASTLE, LEDBURY, HEREFORDSHIRE, HR8 1RL
WHY: NATIONAL FIREWORK COMPETITION
COST: £18 ADULTS - £8 CHILDREN
CAMPING: £10 PER NIGHT PER ADULT
GAZEBO: £25

Eastnor Castle is a stunning example of early 19th century mock-gothic revival style which nestles gently into the Malvern Foothills. Built by the current occupiers James Hervey Bathhurst’s family in the early 19th century, it sits majestically on land purchased by his family in the late 16th century. This beautiful Grade I listed Castle was designed by Robert Smirke, an architect of note who also designed the British Museum.

James Hervey Bathurst, current occupier is a direct descendent of John Cocks, 1st Earl Somers and works tirelessly for the restoration and upkeep of International places of interest. He is also president of the Historic Houses Association, the Vice President of European Historic Houses and chairman and trustee of the UK branch of the World Monuments fund.

His first wife Sarah started the restoration project in 1988 and they had soon made inroads with the repairs and today, the venue is available to book for weddings, corporate events and of course film/TV production and product launch. There are even several fully restored bedrooms for you to spend the night in luxuriant splendour in a Castle for the night!

In the grounds, there is a lake, an arboretum, deer park, a huge children’s nature trail and the knight’s maze. Great to just kick back and take the family along with a huge picnic blanket and take in the sheer beauty of the house and gardens before the fireworks get under way just after 9.15 with a demonstration/tutorial about Category 4 pyrotechnics (professional use ONLY) before the competitors take their places.

The event is the brainchild of MLE Pyrotechnics who will be responsible for the finale show whilst the votes are cast and counted.

The teams competing at Eastnor Castle this year are as follows:

9.30 F1 PYRO – BURGESS HILL

The team from F1 Pyro are delighted to be invited to take part in this years Firework Champions event at the beautiful Eastnor Castle having been three times winners of the event at other locations previously. Last year saw the team lift the coveted Southport British Musical Firework Championships.

Established in 2009, the team continues to go from strength to strength.

Display by: Nick
Firing system: FireOne

9.45 TWO TIGERS FIREWORKS – OKEHAMPTON, DEVON

This team of professionals were very proud winners of the Firework Champions event back in 2010 at Eastnor so they are really looking forward to the return.

Established in 2001, they have a busy order book with regular work within the local area as well as across the country, firing at a variety of major events and music festivals. Along with the fireworks, they regularly include light shows, video projections, fire-sculpting etc – basically, you name it, they do it!

They plan to have the audience ‘getting on down’ to some sick disco and funk tracks.

Display by: Richard Cranmer

10.00 FLASHPOINT FIREWORKS

This team was established in 2003 and they have been winners at Southport BMFC and again at Eastnor Castle and they continue to go from strength to strength. All highly trained in all aspects of display pyrotechnics they keep their finger on the pulse when it comes to the latest innovations within the
Industry. They are renowned for their split second timing and passion for colour and effect – watch this team closely!

Display by: Ian Skilton
Firing system: FireByWire

10.40 Once all of the competitors have shown their wares, the organisers MLE Pyrotechnics take to the stage whilst the public votes are cast and counted. MLE’s display will not be subject to competition rules so you may see some really new and innovative pieces.

The gates open at 5.30pm to allow people to get settled before the competition gets underway. You are welcome to bring along a picnic and take your positions for best views early doors. Camping overnight is available in the field next to the car park at £10 per adult per night.