ARROW Country Valley Park will be alight with the colours of autumn this week with a free event for residents.
‘Illuminating Autumn’ will return to the park after last year’s initial trial.
The event will run slightly later this year – from 5pm to 9pm – on Friday, November 11 and Saturday 12 and boasts a free light trail, music and food stalls for all ages to enjoy.
On Saturday visitors are also invited to join in with a free lantern walk around the lake from 6pm, led by the Elton Wrong and his amazing magical mobile piano.
The light trail and event space will be focused around the visitor’s centre and central area of the park so anyone wishing to walk round the lake outside of the organised lantern walks should take their own torches as it may still be dark.
Portfolio holder for leisure services, Coun Jo Beecham, said: “With lots of local private firework displays elsewhere last weekend, I am glad we’re also offering this extra alternative on a different weekend.
“Not only is it completely free and something different to keep your family entertained in the run up to the start of Christmas festivities, but there are also many reasons why some children and adults do not enjoy traditional fireworks, whether they’re scared, have learning difficulties or PTSD, or are upset by the issues it causes to their pets.
“This instead is something everyone can enjoy.”
Redditch Borough Council leader, Coun Matt Dormer, said: “To put on a firework display can cost in the region of £25k for a ten-minute show, which is just not sustainable or a good use of public money.
“The illuminating autumn event provides much better value and our team have listened to residents’ comments from last year and worked hard to make the event even better.
“It is better for the environment, local wildlife and is safer for residents attending too.”
Visit redditchbc.gov.uk for more information.
