The St John's PA committee had all eyes on the ominous weather forecast the week before the Fireworks Night. News of gale force winds and a slew of fireworks cancellations over the preceding weekend meant the Committee had everything crossed that they would chance upon a lucky window for one of the most eagerly anticipated PA events of the year.
Mrs Tori Denman, Chair of the Parents’ Association, commented, "Thankfully, we were in luck. While rumour had it that the Facilities team in their endless capability may have sorted out the wind for us too (on top of everything else!), a mild, clear and still evening unfolded. Unexpectedly, perfect fireworks conditions! Parents and children came out in force to enjoy the evening. In fact, it seemed some could scarcely wait for the gates to open."
The anticipation and energy of the children as they found their friends and played in the dark while they waited for the display was a big part of the charm of the evening. It helped that they were well fuelled by the Catering team’s delicious doughnuts and hearty hot dogs, all washed down with a warming mug of hot chocolate. With excitement levels reaching their crescendo, Mr Chippington led a raucous countdown and the sky was ablaze with a myriad of colour and pattern. The display was amazing, the little faces rapt and the traditional chorus of oohs, wows and gasps of wonder appropriately matched.
Mrs Denman, exclaimed, “We are enormously grateful to the St John’s College groundsmen for allowing us the use of the playing fields and their assistance in preparing for the event, to the indefatigable school catering and facilities teams and in particular to our generous parent and staff volunteers all of whom work to make it such a success. There was excellent attendance this year and it is heart-warming to see the whole school share in such a happy occasion. Thank you for supporting this event.”
