Thousands pack town as fireworks fill the night sky at Tide of Light

The seafront turned into a sea of heads, with people of all ages gasping at the impressive firework display organised by Worthing Lions Club and sponsored by Bill Coles’ Fairground.

Marian Down, press officer for Worthing Lions, said: “Together, the Lions and Bill gave the people of Worthing a night to remember with a spectacular pyrotechnic extravaganza.

“Businesses in the town were the busiest they had been for months, with families enjoying street food and drinks both before and after the fireworks.

“It is a credit to the people 
of the town to say that the whole event passed off without any trouble or any arrests at all.

“The cost of the fireworks is enormous and without generous sponsors such as Bill Coles and the spectators’ donations, this event would not take place at all.

“The Lions motto is ‘We Serve’ and it is felt that Worthing Lions certainly served their community well with this fantastic event.”

The Lions made a total of £3,000 through donations to the club’s bucket collectors, which was an improvement on last year.

This year’s Tide of Light event, organised by Bartie Presents, saw South Street lined with food stalls selling a variety of culinary treats from across the globe – including local businesses the Fish Factory and The Piggery.

Before the fireworks, children and their parents took part in a parade and Steyne Garden was illuminated by 16 giant tulip lanterns.

Spectator Connie Morgan said the town was ‘truly wonderful’ on the night.

“It seemed like everyone in the town made their way to the beach to watch a spectacular display of fireworks, enjoy the amusements rides and to tuck into the abounding amount of food available,” she said.

Inspector Alan Lowe, of Adur and Worthing Neighbourhood Policing Team, congratulated the Lions on what was a trouble- free family event.