Gardeners and allotment holders woke up to the delightful sound of rain this morning.
The Island’s scorched and tinder landscape is finally feeling the benefit of the much-needed rain, but unfortunately it will take a lot more than a couple of days of rain before the drought and hosepipe ban are lifted.
Concerns about firework displays
In the meantime, several readers have been in touch with News OnTheWight concerned about firework displays.
In the last couple of weeks the towns of Shanklin, Ventnor and Sandown have all had fireworks displays, however, they have all been on the water – avoiding any risk of unintended fires breaking out.
Reader: “I can’t believe it’s still happening”
Having heard the fireworks at Blackgang Chine last night, Melanie from Niton got in touch to tell News OnTheWight,
“The whole of the country is in a drought. We have a hose pipe ban, and been advised about BBQ, bonfires and such like.
“Then why is Blackgang still having a firework display? That is totally irresponsible. I can’t believe it’s still happening.”
Blackgang Chine: Additional safety measures will be in place
News OnTheWight for in touch with Vectis Ventures (who run Blackgang Chine and Robin Hill Country Park) with questions about their firework displays and risk assessments.
A spokesperson for Vectis Ventures told News OnTheWight,
“We can confirm that the displays will be going ahead as planned and we can assure you that additional safety measures will be in place.
“The measures have been successfully implemented.”
Approved by Fire Service
The measures include an Updated Risk Assessment provided by a fireworks contractor, which includes:
- Additional staff
- Additional equipment provisions including Fire Beaters, water systems and onsite fire vehicle
The spokesperson added,
“All of these additional measures have been discussed and approved by the Hampshire and IW Fire and Rescue Service.”
Pyrotechnic Show at The Needles
The Needles Landmark Attraction in Alum Bay recently cancelled their weekly fireworks display due to the dry conditions, but last week returned with a new weekly Pyrotechnic Show within the grounds of the attraction.
This show does not have any traditional fireworks, but does include flames, sparklers and what’s described as ‘Pyrotechnic Fireworks’.
A spokesperson for the attraction explained,
“However the difference with Pyrotechnics is that they are safe enough to use in close proximity to the public due to the more controllable nature of the product.
“Pyrotechnics also produce very low or zero debris therefore making the show a lot more safer to set off from our roundabout rather than a field. Pyrotechnics are what can be seen in stadiums and concerts just to get an idea of how much more safer they can be.
“We also have on site during the show Freshwater Fire Brigade, should we need them.”
Image: zuza galczynska under CC BY 2.0
