RIPLEY BONFIRE CELEBRATIONS – SATURDAY 28TH OCTOBER 2023
Welcome to the 2023 Ripley Bonfire Celebrations. Having returned last year after an impromptu break of two years due to the Covid pandemic, I am pleased to report that 2022 was an amazing year, not just because of the unseasonable weather and barmy temperatures throughout the day, but the success of our street collection, which as a free event is essential to the future of the celebrations.
As we move closer to a cashless society, 2022 saw, for the first time, the introduction of card readers at key entry points to the village, so as you enter the village this year, please take time to tap one of our readers, as always, our yellow buckets shall be available for those of us who still operate with cash.
As a result of your generosity, having paid all our costs of putting on the event, we still donated in the region of £8000 to various community groups and charities, so again please give generously this year, ensuring that the ‘Legendary Ripley Bonfire Celebrations’ continue for future generations.
Once again, this year, you will be able to experience the lighting of our huge bonfire, courtesy of the bonfire boys (and girls), the Mammoth Funfair courtesy of the Benson’s family and the fantastic firework display courtesy of Dynamic Fireworks, please also remember to visit our food and drink stalls offering a variety of hot food, beers and wine, mulled wine, coffee etc, all proceeds go to the cost of the firework display, for which last years display was one of the best ever seen at Ripley.
Have a great evening, please stay safe especially if you have youngsters, and remember your pets and animals if left at home. Have a safe journey home and hopefully we will see you again in 2024.
Steve Hill
RBA Chairman & Safety Officer