Around 5,000 people attended the fundraiser on Saturday [November 2], despite fears that gale force winds and wet weather would turn the event into a damp squib. Last year saw a crowd of 12,000.
Despite challenging conditions during the day, the team of volunteers worked hard to make sure the display went ahead while other displays across Kent were called off.
Organisers Royal Tunbridge Wells Round Table said because numbers were ‘significantly down’ on last year, only a small profit for local causes was raised, which will be distributed to the charities who helped on the night.
This will mean the Round Table’s Annual Giveaway will not be able to proceed next year. Last year over £30k was given to local charities in and around Tunbridge Wells at their Giveaway.
Committee member Andrew Mockford said: “The strong wind and heavy rain subsided during the early evening, so the decision to continue with the display was justified. All our guys worked exceptionally hard to set up, in very challenging conditions.
“Although it is easy to suggest postponing the event, the decision to do so is far from it. The safety of the public is of paramount importance to us and our number one priority. The irrecoverable costs already incurred prior to the evening mean that we will always make every effort to put on the event, as long as it’s safe for everyone.”
Head of Fireworks Committee Graeme Dewar added: “I’m delighted to say that the horrendous weather conditions on Saturday did not deter us from persevering with our event. We were determined not to let the public down, especially considering the numerous displays cancelled in the local area.”
The Round Table has thanked Buss Murton Law for their sponsorship and Times newspapers, which once again acted as media sponsor.
