This is not an idle threat, but a plea for help and ideas.

The recommendations made by the local Fire service are that public displays of fireworks should be in a well-lit, flat area 200m x 200m with the public at least 50m from the fire-works. In addition, if there is a bonfire then the public should also be at least 50m from the fire. Clearly, there is no where in or around Reach that meets these criteria.

Last year, although we looked for other sites, the Hythe was the only suitable place. All other possible venues were unsuitable for one reason or another. Too close to animals, badly lit approaches, very uneven or boggy ground, on private land, too many trees etc.

We also had a much smaller bonfire than in previous years and many people expressed their disappointment at this, but from a safety aspect it had almost gone out by the time most people had gone and we were not left with a raging inferno, blazing away at mid-night as we have had in the past. There were also comments made that the firework display was shorter than usual, but £500 disappears in smoke in 10-15 minutes. This cost has to be covered from the entrance fees, donations and the shortfall from Village Hall funds. Would you like us to spend more, increase entrance fees or keep the display small?

We need your support and ideas for November 2000. Do you want us to organise a village fire-work display or would your prefer us to hire a bus to visit one of the other local displays in Burwell, Cambridge, Ely etc.

What do you want ? Please let us know - speak to someone who is on the committee, speak to Phil, write to the magazine, drop us a short note, e-mail us. To coin a phrase, we are waiting for your call.

Reach Village Hall Committee.

I would like :

To keep a Village Display on the Hythe Yes / No

In the Village Yes / No

To spend more on the fireworks Yes / No

I would be prepared to pay more Yes / No

To see the display ( £3 / £4 / £5 – Adult)

I would prefer to go by bus to _________________