Photo galleries: Thousands enjoy free fireworks spectacular in Norwich

The Big Boom as fireworks light up the sky above Norwich Castle. Picture: Denise Bradley (Image: copyright: Archant 2013)

Thousands of people braved the rain and cold and made their way into the city for the free Big Boom event which replaces the city council-organised Sparks in the Park event.

But the new-look fireworks extravaganza, right in the heart of Norwich, is going to be a hit if last night was anything to go by, with the crowds of people who lined the streets being wowed by the fireworks launched from Norwich Castle.

The aptly-named Big Boom event was a hit with the crowds.

Jim Palmer, 34, from Hellesdon, attended the event with his wife Lori, 35, daughter Lucy, seven, and their daughter's friend Daisy Basey-Fisher, also seven.

He said: 'Awesome. They're the best I've seen since I was a kid. Lucy said they're the best she's ever seen.'

Paul Hughes, 47 and his wife Jane, 44, who were visiting Norwich having recently come back from teaching in Malaysia, said it was very enjoyable.

Mr Hughes said: 'Excellent setting – it's nice to have free fireworks for a change. It would have been better if we could have controlled the weather.'

Rad Kerrigan, 44, from Little Plumstead, attended the event with his wife Peta and son Conor, seven.

Mr Kerrigan said: 'What can I say? The council has laid it on, we've not had to pay a penny and its brought everyone together. It's a shame about the rain but it was really quite spectacular and I think the council should be commended.'

Speaking before the event, Brenda Arthur, leader of the council, said she hoped the Big Boom event would be a 'very memorable night'.

She said: 'It's amazing to watch Norwich really come alive in the way it does when the council stages impressive events in the city centre.'

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