With almost a week spent on construction, the replica of Carlisle City Castle’s walls is starting to come together ahead of the bonfire celebrations tonight.
Tonight’s performance will be the 28th fireshow event staged by Carlisle City Council and often attracts more than 35,000 people.
The bonfire features three characters. A musician playing the lute, another thought to be a likeness of Mary, Queen of Scots and a mystery guest.
Mary, Queen of Scots (1542-87), fled from her rebellious subjects to England in May 1567. She was brought to Carlisle Castle by order of Elizabeth I.
It is said she lived in relative luxury supported by local merchants and servants.
Pre-entertainment is due to start at 6.30pm and the bonfire lit at 7pm.
Bonfire visitors information
All City Council car parks are free after 6pm, some other car parks may charge. The following temporary traffic arrangements will apply throughout the day:
- No vehicle access to Bitts Park. The Sheepmount will also be closed.
- No vehicle access to Dacre Road (adjacent to Carlisle Castle & Bitts Park).
- Limited parking for Blue Badge holders will be available at Bitts Park (Dacre Road) Car Park. This will be available on a first come, first served basis.
- No vehicle access to Bitts Park from Willowholme or The Sheepmount.
- The Devonshire Walk skate park will be closed from lunchtime on the day of the event.
Access
A special viewing area for wheelchair users will be set aside on the Sheepmount Road. Up to two carers allowed on the viewing area per wheelchair user.
After the event has ended, those wanting to walk to the West of the city will be filtered to the right of Devonshire Walk (towards Caldewgate and the pedestrian crossing opposite the former Globe public house) and those wanting to walk into the city centre will be filtered to the left and will then be able access Castle Street across Castle Way (between the barriers opposite the Castle).
Safety
Visitors are asked to note that by the very nature of the event, smoke, noise, embers and mud underfoot, are inevitable. All are requested to be mindful of the risks and to come prepared for such eventualities: warm clothing and suitable footwear.
She’s Gott It! Events provide the event on behalf of Carlisle City Council.
Firework safety for us dogs
Please take care and don’t get too scared of the loud bangs and crackles. Ask your humans to leave you a light on and close all the curtains if they go out at this time of year.
According to the RSPCA it is estimated that 45 per cent of dogs in the UK show signs of fear when they hear fireworks.
They have produced a leaflet, Fireworks frighten animals, to help you get through the season of bangs and pops. Get your human to download it and read it to you, so you know what to do.
Until next time
Licks and wags
Charlie