Bonfire Night 2022

1st November 2022

Ahead of Bonfire Night, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) is reminding people that fireworks are not toys and should only be used in accordance with the firework code.

Every year, RoSPA hears about people – including children – being injured by fireworks. Data collected across Britain in previous years shows that, on average, around 1,000 people visit A&E for treatment of a firework-related injury in the four weeks around Bonfire Night, with half of the injuries being suffered by under-18s. About half of firework injuries happen at family or private parties and about a quarter in the street or other public place. A much smaller proportion – around 10% – of the injuries happen at large public displays.

A representative from RoSPA says: “By law, category 2 fireworks – which are the type suitable for garden displays – cannot be sold to anyone under the age of 18 and under-18s are also not allowed to carry fireworks in a public place. It is therefore disappointing that we are still hearing about under-18s being injured by fireworks. We are urging parents and carers to talk to children and young people about the dangers of fireworks and we appeal to all adults not to pass on fireworks to under-18s. Fireworks are not toys – they are explosives and, as such, should be treated with respect.”

They add: “RoSPA has long said that the safest place to enjoy fireworks is at a properly-organised public display, but we understand that attending one of these events is not possible for everyone. Therefore, if planning a fireworks display at home, we urge people to brush up on the firework code to ensure their celebration goes off with a bang for all the right reasons.”

The Firework Code

Only buy fireworks from a reputable retailer and ensure the packaging carries the “CE” mark or is marked with “BS 7114” and make sure you follow The Firework Code this Bonfire Night.

Be sure to:

  • Plan your fireworks display to make it safe and enjoyable
  • Keep fireworks in a closed box and use them one at a time
  • Read and follow the instructions on each firework using a torch if necessary
  • Light the firework at arm’s length with a taper and stand well back
  • Keep naked flames, including cigarettes, away from fireworks
  • Never return to a firework once it has been lit
  • Don’t put fireworks in pockets and never throw them
  • Direct any rocket fireworks well away from spectators
  • Never use paraffin or petrol on a bonfire
  • Make sure that the fire is out and surroundings are made safe before leaving

Dunorlan Park Firework Display: Saturday 5th November

There are several organised firework displays taking place over the forthcoming days in and around Tunbridge Wells. The most notable being that at Dunorlan Park.

The Dunorlan Park Firework Display has been lighting up the skies since 1957, seeing tens of thousands of people attend. This annual display is organised by the Royal Tunbridge Wells Round table, who help raise money for great causes. The Round Table are proud to support national charities like Children in Need and Anthony Nolan, whilst also supporting thousands of local charities and individuals making an enormous difference to millions of lives every year. Local charities that have benefited include Nourish, Mental Health Resource, Age UK and Hospice in the Weald.

The Rock Choir will be performing at the even this year, and the Tunbridge Wells Rugby Club will be running the bar. There will also be plenty of food stalls to make sure every is fully fuelled for the evening’s proceedings!

Speaking to the Times of Tunbridge Wells, Chairman of the Fireworks Committee at the Round Table, Simon Addis said: “We are delighted that the fireworks are back with a bang for our 65th year. This is one of the flagship events held in the town every year and we are delighted to light up the skies over Tunbridge Wells, while raising thousands of pounds for local charities.”

Bonfire Night at The Pantiles

Why not make Bonfire Night memorable for the right reasons this year and enjoy it with friends and family? Come to The Pantiles before one of the Tunbridge Wells organised displays and grab a bite to eat in one of our restaurants, cafes or pubs. Perhaps even enjoying a night cap after you’ve watched the sparks fly? Inspiration on where to eat and drink can be found here.

Enjoy Bonfire Night!