Big Bang event sure to rock your world

DOUBLE British firework champions 'Fantastic Fireworks' will take centre stage

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FINAL arrangements for Oldham's eagerly anticipated bonfire spectacular at Oldham Edge tomorrow have been confirmed.

Oldham Council's free "Big Bang" event, taking place just outside Oldham town centre, will open from 5pm with a funfair and foodstalls before a stage show and bonfire lighting at 6pm.

Double British firework champions 'Fantastic Fireworks' will take centre stage before Flame Oz headline the show with a "glow show" display followed by a high energy fire dance and juggling extravaganza.

Oldham's own Juba do Leao are also returning with their Latin vibes and percussion to keep the audience dancing.

Elliot Eastwick, local breakfast show DJ from our event partners Revolution 96.2, will host through proceedings before a grand finale fireworks show at 7pm, with the impressive display visible across every corner of the borough.

Cllr Jean Stretton, Oldham council leader, said: "We've been planning the Big Bang for months and everything is ready, but there are some important reminders to the thousands of people who will be coming along on the night.

"Oldham Council's town centre car parks and on-street parking bays are all free on Thursday from 3pm onwards but there will be a big demand for spaces so arrive early. Please use public transport, if you can.

"If you are driving remember that the car parks closest to the site, like the civic centre and Bradshaw Street always fill up early. Also be aware there's no parking at Oldham Edge.

"The bonfire site is just a few minutes' walk from the town centre and our team of volunteers will be on hand to show you the easiest and quickest walking routes, which are via Henshaw Street (opposite the rear of Tommyfield Market) and Horsedge Street, passing Blue Coat school.

Appropriate

"As you'll know the weather is always hard to predict but it will be cold, so please wrap up warm and wear appropriate outdoor footwear and suitable clothes.

"We're monitoring the forecast and will quickly let you know if there is any further information you need to know via the usual media and social media channels."

Alcohol, sparklers, fireworks and fires will not be permitted on site and will be confiscated.

Children under 16 years old must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

No dogs, except assistance dogs, are allowed on site.

The fireworks will finish at around 7.30pm but the fairground and attractions will stay open until 8pm.

Anyone planning to take up free parking at Oldham Council-owned car parks should note that pay and display machines will be 'bagged over' so you do not need to take a ticket from 3pm onwards.

On-street bays are also free during this period - these are not bagged over and you do not need to take a ticket.

New maps showing the layout and temporary parking restrictions in place around Oldham Edge - and one showing the location of all council-owned car parks - can be viewed online now at www.oldham.gov.uk/bonfire.