The World Famous Pyrotechnics Company, Trinity Gardens, Stockton

by Aranda Garrard, The Journal

IT may have been the most unlikely setting for fireworks, but The Church of the Holy Trinity was lit up on Sunday night with both power and glory.

I admit, I originally had mixed emotions about the whole idea of letting fireworks off inside a place of worship – ruins or not.

But, as people of all ages and cultures descended on Trinity Green Park to watch the display, it came to mind that the church was back where it should be – at the heart of the community, bringing people of all backgrounds and races together in celebration.

To begin with, the building was bathed in reds, greens and yellows to dramatic effect, as colourful glitter was blown into the air. There was a magical feel to it as the crowds stood watching and waiting in awe.

This was followed by the sound of church bells before a tremendous, fast-paced  medley  of songs from across the world took things to fever pitch. A crane was brought in to help events along as rockets and a colourful array of fireworks were lifted into the air and launched with amazing grace.

The results were breathtaking,
as a fabulous cascade of gold exploded out over the ruins of the church.

The event breathed new life into the stone shell of the building, which has retained its grandeur despite its current state.

To see so many people dancing and enjoying themselves was magnificent in itself, without the fantastic display.

The finale was truly a feather in the cap of both the pyrotechnics company and the organisers of the Stockton International Riverside Festival, which has attracted scores of families and has been running alongside the Stockton Fringe until Sunday night.

It was evident that the safety and security of those who attended was paramount and the event went off without a hitch.

I, for one, will be praying for more of the same, as the display has opened my eyes to what Stockton-on-Tees can offer and has truly put it on the map for me.