03/11/2021
One of the key aspects of Bonfire Night and Fireworks is that community-centric events are organised and with Nuneaton & Bedworth, that is no different. Nuneaton has hosted a bonfire and firework display since the early 1980’s and Bedworth for over 25 years, so these events are some of the longest-running community events in the Borough.
Following a very challenging 18 months in the lives of the entire population, it is a thrill to see that our traditional bonfire night is once again, being showcased as both the Nuneaton and Bedworth Charity Bonfires and Firework Displays are scheduled for Saturday 6th November 2021.
One of the main challenges faced by the organisers, Nuneaton Round Table and Bedworth Lions, has been around funding for the event. In May of this year, the Nuneaton & Bedworth Borough Council made the very tough decision to withdraw funding from the event, in order to support other local requirements.
However, all was not lost as some of the most prominent businesses within the local area were able to step in and support the event, making sure that the community spirit did not suffer after the most difficult 18 months in most of their lifetimes.
With the tireless support of local MP Marcus Jones, the event has partnered with McDonald’s, Holland & Barrett and Triton Showers ,as well as a number of local small businesses to ensure the events in both Nuneaton and Bedworth keep on running and, most importantly, raise some valuable funds for local charitable causes.
Matt Cawthorne, Chairman of Nuneaton Round Table, said “The responses we've received from local businesses has been overwhelming. I would like to extend my thanks to MP Marcus Jones and all of the local businesses who have helped us put on this fantastic family event. Members of both Nuneaton Round Table and Bedworth Lions have worked tirelessly over the last 6 months and can't wait to see local families enjoy the Bonfire celebrations in the traditional way. It's shaping up to be a fantastic event this year, one not to be missed!”.
Eric Tunnicliffe, President of Bedworth Lions, said “We are very grateful for the support of these community minded companies. Their sponsorship has helped ensure this year’s event will go ahead and has allowed all of the profits to be available for donation to local charities and good causes, rather than being consumed by the high cost of running the events”.
Sarah McLean, of McDonald’s Nuneaton, said “The good people of Nuneaton and Bedworth are the bedrock of my business. I just want them to be able to have a wonderful evening.”
It is important to understand that everyone involved is an unpaid volunteer, providing an evening of entertainment with fair and food stalls, as well as the traditional bonfire and fireworks.
Marcus Jones MP said, “My sincere thanks goes to the excellent Nuneaton businesses that have given such generous support. And a big thank you to our local Round Table and Lions who put a massive amount of work into this important community evening.”
We’re thrilled to see this event come back after a fallow year beyond the control of the organisers and this will once again drive the community spirit of both Nuneaton and Bedworth.