Image by Newcastle Cricket Club

The second annual Jesmond Fireworks Display at Newcastle Cricket Club last night was a roaring success, with as many as 4,000 in attendance.

Staged by Reaction Fireworks, the display was a spectacular way to celebrate the 125^th anniversary of the club.

A higher number of tickets was released this year, meaning more residents and locals were able to go.

Olwyn Hocking, secretary of the Cricket Club and organiser of the event, said: “This is the first time we’re doing it full scale, with a maximum capacity of 4,000 people.

“We certainly thought we would get 2,500 maybe 3,000, but the demand has been absolutely amazing.”

The zoned areas were popular and allowed people a better chance to experience the fireworks.

Stalls held by community groups and local businesses were very busy, with the crepes by Monsieur Crepe and warming mulled wine in particular being mentioned favourably throughout the evening and in messages afterwards.

14 year old Will Hardy, a valued member of the cricket club and Olympic Torch Bearer, led the countdown to the Firework Display in the Radio Tyneside stage show.

Before the countdown, he said, “I’m really excited and there’s quite a big crowd so I’m quite nervous’ also admitting that the fireworks ‘were great last year.”

The display this year marks the 125^th Anniversary of the club which Hocking described as “another piece of wonderful history.” There are plans next year to mark the anniversary of the first game ever played at the ground.

The value of this local event to the residents of Jesmond was acknowledged last night with the huge demand for tickets and the positive response after the fantastic display.

Take a look at our colourful slideshow, with photos by David Winham.

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