Business goes with a bang for Chris

Chris Tinning believes customers want a bit of fun despite the recession

Staff at The Firework Factory in Lancaster say that despite the recession, they are selling twice as many fireworks as they did in 2008.

The company designs and manufactures many of its explosive creations as well as importing fireworks from abroad.

Chris Tinning, one of the resident pyrotechnicians, said: "We think that people want a break from all the doom and gloom."

It seems everyone wants to make sure their parties go with a bang!

It's certainly a busy time of year for Chris: "Last year our sales doubled and this year, they have doubled again. We are all working around the clock to keep up with demand.

"The numbers have taken us by surprise, but we think customers are more eager than ever for some escapism, entertainment and a great party."

Famous fans

The company already has a following of famous fans, including footballer's wife Colleen Rooney, rock stars Robert Plant and Roger Waters, and television presenter Jeremy Clarkson.

During the past fortnight, customers have travelled to The Firework Factory from as far afield as Nottingham and Glasgow. Mail order and internet sales have also rocketed.

So how can you make sure your firework display takes off? "Think aerial, think big!" says Chris, "To achieve effects comparable with professional shows, opt for aerial fireworks - and I'm not just talking about rockets.

"Professional firework displays feature powerful aerial fireworks known as 'barrages' or 'cakes' - and if you know where to look, there are some great barrage and cake products that are suitable for home shows too.

Barrages shoot fireworks and paint the whole sky with fire, noise and colour

"They shoot fireworks and paint the whole sky with fire, noise and colour: one fuse will send forth up to several hundred 'bombettes': mini shells that burst high in the sky, with magnificent effects. Don't be misled into thinking that a greater number of shots makes for a more powerful firework."

Huge scale

Chris says for maximum impact, go for "maximum bore" barrages. The bore is the size of the shot and the legal maximum is 29mm, which will fill the sky, "Imagine what 50 such shots would look like in rapid succession, all off one fuse, and you'll see why sales of barrages have soared!

"The biggest barrage on the UK market is Brother's Midnight, which provides a tremendous, fully choreographed, aerial display on a huge scale."

So what should you take into account when choosing fireworks? "Before you do anything else, confirm that the firing site allows a sufficient safety distance for the fireworks in question. The minimum distance between the fireworks and the audience should be 25 metres, though a greater distance is preferable.

"Any responsible retailer should be able to confirm the required distance, and we state this on our website using easy icons so our customers can tell at a glance.

"Secondly, ensure that the retailer is a licensed, reputable trader and that the fireworks sold comply with a manufacturing standard called BS7114.

The company are selling twice as many fireworks as they did last year

"The next question centres upon the type of event. Are you hosting a display for a mix of all ages, or is it going to be an age-specific crowd? An organised show, or a more informal get together? For informal gatherings and parties, go for plenty of fireworks and plenty of variety.

"A range of small to medium-sized fireworks will ensure that all the adults can have a go at lighting something - and that the party keeps rocking for hours!"

Smiley face

For an organised display, smaller quantities of more highly powered, larger aerial fireworks are the way to go, "The best displays are short, sharp, and spectacular: 15 minutes is a good maximum."

But what if you don't have a lot of space? "Although display fireworks such as barrages certainly provide the most spectacular performances in terms of sheer scale and spectacle, they do require lengthy safety distances and are not always suitable for smaller gardens.

"If you have a small garden, look for fireworks labelled Category Two. These are slightly smaller, but still offer superb fun and surprisingly big performances. Good quality garden fireworks provide a different type of event that is more intimate, informal and reminiscent of the traditional family bonfire party.

"In fact, many professional firework display organisers love nothing more than getting 'up close and personal' with a selection of garden pieces.

"Always popular are our Funny Faces. These are popular rockets which are not that big, but are beloved by children: each rocket bursts gently into a bright smiley face in the sky!"