Fireworks reconsidered at Trowbridge Christmas Lights switch-on

The move follows complaints from locals whose pets were left terrified by the loud bangs and flashes from the display at the climax of the event in the town park on Friday, November 15.

Trowbridge mayor Stephen Cooper said: “I asked the town council to substitute silent fireworks for the 'normal' ones in tonight's display and was told that the cost difference would make the display too expensive to put on at all.

Some locals complained about the spectacular fireworks display terrifying their pets. (Image: Trevor Porter)“My personal opinion is that we should seriously consider the future of the fireworks during the Lights Switch-on event or scale the display back to just a smaller, silent one next year.

“But this will take a resolution of our council to make happen, and we have to accept that there will be many who will not turn up if we make the display less ‘spectacular’. 

“I think that's worth the price but I don't know how many would support such a move.”

Some councillors called for 'silent' fireworks to be used but were told they would be too expensive. (Image: Trevor Porter)

Council leader Stewart Palmen said he would be asking officers to rethink the event, saying it was “too close” to Bonfire Night fireworks to hold another display.

“We asked about using silent fireworks but they are extremely expensive and let’s face it you have got to have a bit of a bang to send stuff going in all sorts of different directions.

“We should reconsider having fireworks. I had a few complaint emails from residents around there who were really not very happy at all.

“I have asked for it to be on the events committee’s next agenda so that we can debate it because there are pros and cons.

“I was there and it was absolutely spectacular. It was fantastic for the kids who had taken part in the lantern festival to stand out there and see some fireworks.

“It adds to the event but somebody from Clarks Place was extremely upset so that’s an opinion as well.”

Town Crier Trevor Heeks was chosen as the ‘Shining Star’ to switch on the Christmas lights, along with Trowbridge Ted and Mayor Stephen Cooper. (Image: Trevor Porter)

Town crier Trevor Heeks was chosen by Cllr Cooper as this year’s ‘shining star’ to switch on the Christmas Lights to recognise his 38 years of service to the town.

The switch-on followed a lantern parade and was accompanied by a samba band and the Rock Choir on the stage.

A Christmas Fair was also staged in The Civic Centre on Friday and Saturday.