James Bond welcomed the crowds to Warwick Racecourse last Saturday as Warwick Bondfire exceeded expectations with all 6,000 tickets sold out in advance. With the firework show set to the music of James Bond themes, organisers quickly dubbed it a BONDfire!
Aston Martin joined in the fun bringing a DBS like those in the new Bond film “No Time to Die” with a James Bond backdrop for selfies by the main gate. Gates opened early to allow crowds into the main enclosure buying hot food and filling the racecourse bars. The Spa Strummers Ukele band provided entertainment and children bought flashing guns and swords to get into the mood of the Bond movies.
The weather stayed clear and dry – ideal bonfire weather. A short show at 6pm excited the crowd, with squeals of excitement as the fireworks started. The Bonfire was lit at 6.30, then the main show by Fantastic Fireworks set to James Bond themes started to thrill everyone. The atmosphere was wonderful as people enjoyed being able to get out again, the open air helping to dispel the fears of the last months.
Organisers Warwick Lions, Warwick Rotary Club and Warwick Racecourse were delighted by the turnout. David Shore who chairs the Bonfire team said “our volunteers have worked hard for the last 6 months to make the show a reality and it is a relief to have everything come together. Lions and Rotary depend on these events to raise money for charity, its been almost 2 years without income for us and we needed a success tonight to be able to continue our work.”
Local sponsorship was provided by Feldon & Dunsmore, local solicitors; Geberit, Bovis Homes, Warwick Kia, Godfrey Payton and The Tuckery, and the pallets for the Bonfire were supplied by Uniparts Logistics. Warwick Ambulance Association provided First Aid support and the Air cadets helped to set up. CJ’s Events provided staff and stalls for the event. Our thanks go to Andre Klein and his team at Warwick Racecourse and everyone else for their support. All proceeds will go to local charities and good causes.
