Come the fifth of November, come a slew of fireworks displays across London - across the entire country, in fact.
Some displays charge punters to enter (even though you can still see the display from a short distance away), some last only a few minutes, some are in out-of-the-way places, and some are terribly choreographed. Not so the
Blackheath fireworks display.
This one's a biggie, and it's free. Around 100,000 people are expected to attend, but fear not, Blackheath's common is large enough to comfortably hold everyone.
And the evening isn't just about fireworks, although that's the main event, of course. You'll also find a fairground on the common, lots of food stalls, and a fully licensed bar. All of this can be enjoyed both before and after the fireworks display.
The display starts at 8pm, so try to get there in plenty of time. The nearest train stations are Blackheath and Lewisham. Alternatively, you can make your way to Greenwich (by boat, DLR or train) and walk the short distance up through Greenwich Park.
As you'll know, many councils across the country are struggling with funding just now. Lewisham council is no exception. Putting on the fireworks display isn't cheap, but the council knows how much the community values the fun night out and so wants the event to continue.
As a result, Lewisham council is making a request for donations, no matter how small, which will be put towards next year's display. Online donations can be made by clicking
here. There's information about other ways to donate halfway down
this page.
Blackheath's fireworks display promises to make for an entertaining night out, just so long as the weather holds, of course...
[Top and third image: Billy Hicks]
