Council reverse decision to allow Regatta Fireworks
With less than 48 hours to go until the much talked about Regatta Fireworks, Wokingham Borough Council have gone back on their decision to allow a crucial temporary footpath suspension. Wokingham Council had agreed to suspend a very small stretch of footpath for a short time either side of the display, crucial for health and safety. Everything was set to go ahead with organisers promising the best display yet only to be dashed late on Thursday by the Council's unexplained change of heart.
Organisers stressed that thousands of people would be let down by this decision and they would be unable to notify the many people who had made plans in time – this proved to be of no interest to them.
"This decision is a blow to both the town and us as organisers" said James Brennan of Hofmanns in Henley, "To keep the minority happy to the detriment of the majority shows that our old friend, Common Sense, seems to have again been beaten."
A Henley Standard survey showed that people in favour of the fireworks outnumber those against nearly 10 fold.
"It makes a mockery of so called democracy when one or two people can exploit loopholes in local government polices for their own purpose" said Dave Coles of A40 Fireworks.
"This is my first time as part of the Regatta Fireworks team and whilst out speaking to many local people I have learnt that the vast majority of businesses and residents support the event whole heartedly" said Angie Major of Blueberry Business. Mrs Major also highlighted lost revenue opportunities for businesses who will have specifically sold tickets for firework related events. "Banning the Fireworks diverts from the real underlying issue of licensing and yobbish behaviour which has nothing to do with the Fireworks. It is utterly disappointing".
About Regatta Fireworks
Fireworks have lit up Henley Royal Regatta since 1839 and today still remain a Saturday night showpiece. As far back as 1893 donation appeals have been made to fund the fireworks. Spectators, Henley businesses, residents and visitors are all encouraged to help ensure that this tradition continues.
About the Organisers
For over 75 years Hofmanns have been obsessed with vintage cars. From our roots in Bentley engineering in the 1950s, to our modern 13,000ft workshop today, our love for classic automobiles, combined with our passion for customer service and an incredible attention to detail have kept us at the forefront of Bentley and Rolls-Royce automobile engineering.
Blueberry Business provides support services for a wide range of organisations ranging from sole traders and membership societies through to medium size international businesses. For those organisations needing help from time to time or on a regular basis we aim to become an extra member of your team, understanding your business and saving time and money. Our services include secretarial services, bookkeeping, website design, design & print and event management.
A40 Fireworks has grown from a small family firm started in 2004. It has grown steadily over the past five years with a major expansion in 2009 when John Bennett joined us as a partner. Our aims remain the same, which is to provide the best possible service for our clients and our motto is, "a small company that does big shows at sensible prices". We work mainly in the home-counties, for event organisers, wedding planners as well as private clients and businesses in the corporate sector.
Contact information
James Brennan, Hofmanns of Henley, call 01491 848805 or email.
Angie Major, Blueberry Business, call 01235 850050 or email.
Dave Coles, A40 Fireworks, call 01844 355132 or email.
