Milton Keynes firework spectacular cancelled amid funding shortfall

Keith Emmett & Sons, the founders of the Milton Keynes Fireworks, have regrettably announced the cancellation of this year’s Firework Spectacular due to a shortfall in funding.

The long-standing community event, a key feature of Bonfire Night celebrations in Milton Keynes, has been called off after organisers were unable to secure the necessary financial support.

Keith Emmett III told Pulse, “It is with great sadness that we must announce the cancellation of this year’s Firework Spectacular. We were approaching the required level of sponsorship but, given the current economic climate, we have unfortunately been unable to secure the funding needed.

“While this news will undoubtedly disappoint many, we want to express our gratitude to our media partner MKFM and the sponsors who supported us in the last two years.”

The first Milton Keynes funfair and fireworks display, organised by Keith Emmett Snr and circus stunt performer Tod Cody in 1978, drew over 10,000 people. For more than four decades, the Emmett family has been a significant player in the leisure industry, specialising in funfair attractions. Over the years, they have proudly offered the city’s largest fireworks display to the public free of charge.

“This year would have marked the 44th anniversary of free fireworks in Milton Keynes,” Keith added.

The event attracts around 100,000 spectators each year, and with a gathering of that scale, considerable logistical challenges must be addressed, including road closures and ensuring public safety. Keith went on to acknowledge the past support of Ringway, who have sponsored these essential road closures. “A final decision on cancellation was made at our annual Safety Advisory Group meeting in July, where all parties agreed to a cut-off date if vital funds could not be raised.”