Man injured at Round Table’s fireworks show

Nov 13 2008 by Sandra Walls, Hamilton Advertiser

A MEMBER of a fireworks display team was injured during Strathaven and District Round Table’s annual bonfire and fireworks extravaganza.

However, despite that incident, the event was dubbed “a success" by organisers.

Saturday, November 1, saw the 2008 Round Table fireworks display and, despite major road closures on the night, the event was very well attended.

The bonfire, which took over six hours to construct, burned for around two hours, keeping those who attended warm late into the night.

A spokesman for the Round Table said: “The fireworks display, once again brilliantly fired by professional display team Midnight Storm, was extremely impressive.

“Unfortunately, the display ended a few minutes prematurely as one of the firing team was injured launching the fireworks.

“A firework hit the visor of the operating technician, causing cuts and bruising, though fortunately no burns.”

As soon as the incident was noted, the documented health and safety procedures, which for many years existed in paper form only, were brought into play.

The spokesman added: “The display was stopped and the injured person was given immediate first aid and then taken by ambulance to hospital.

“Thankfully, the injury was superficial and the injured 45-year-old man was released from hospital in the early hours of Sunday morning.”

Despite the slightly premature ending, the feedback the Round Table have received has been very positive and they have had numerous messages of support from those who attended. The Table are very grateful for this.

David Davidson, of the Round Table, added: “We'd like to say a big thank you to those who supported us, including Craig's Newsagents and the Strathaven Barber Shop in the Common Green for selling tickets, Danskin Flooring, D Donald Contractors and Hamilton Builders for providing the wood to build the fire and for all those too numerous to mention who helped with the build and manned the gates.

“The model railway society were once again a hugely popular part of the event, and were kept busy throughout the evening as large numbers of people enjoyed the free train rides.

“The Evangelical Church were also on hand to help warm people with supplies of free soup.

“Thanks also goes to everyone who attended and helped once again make the night a great success.

“Current estimates suggest that local causes will benefit to the tune of around £5000 as a result.”

All of the proceeds from the event will be used to support local events and good causes.