DOWNEND Round Table’s firework display has raised a huge amount after selling out for a third year in a row.
The volunteer-run event made £47,000, which organisers will give to local good causes over the coming months.
The group is now inviting voluntary groups and community projects to apply for funds, to make sure all money raised benefits people in the area.
People running projects are invited to apply or ask for more information by emailing ask@downendrt.co.uk.
A team from Downend Round Table sifts through applications, finds out more about each cause and awards funding to those it decides to support.
Applications from groups that aren’t able to employ fundraisers or carry out their own events are encouraged, particularly those looking to help fund a project that will make an immediate impact locally.
Up to 30 requests have already been received.
The display itself has been hailed a success, with near-perfect weather conditions during a break between storms.
The last of the 12,000 tickets sold out at around 3pm on the day of the display, November 3.
The total raised is slightly lower than last year’s record £50,000, as more money needed to be set aside to reinstate the ground at the site, which was wet because of heavy rain in the days leading up to the display.
Downend Round Table vice-chair Paul Wells said: “Everyone had a whale of a time. Party Peeps did a fantastic job getting everyone involved in dancing and making ‘mobile phone fireworks’, where everyone was creating a display with their flashlights on their phones.
“There was also a foam party after the display, which helped stagger the crowds leaving the site.It’s becoming more than just fireworks – it’s becoming a bit of a destination event.
“We’ve already had people wanting to buy tickets for next year!”
With the fireworks over, Downend Round Table is once again preparing to help Father Christmas visit children in the area in the run up to Christmas.
The group’s sleigh has been dusted off and members are currently working up a schedule for touring the area during December, visiting streets and collecting donations.
Details will be published via the group’s Facebook page.’ with: Details will be published via the Downend Round Table Santa Sleigh Facebook page.Downend Round Table is also on the lookout for new members to help make sure future events are a success, and to join in social events and activities from paddle boarding and go-karting to brewery tours.
The organisation is open to men aged between 18 and 45. For more information email hello@downendrt.co.uk