A special high-flying fireworks formation has been added to the free, brand new bonfire night event on the Mersey waterfront.

River of Light takes place on Saturday 5 November and sees Liverpool and Wirral join forces to stage a firework spectacular on the River Mersey.

Joining the already packed line-up, are the Twister Aerobatic Team who are renowned for their ‘heart in the mouth’ aerial performances which will see pyrotechnic effects stream from the wings of each of the two Silence Twister aircrafts.

They will wow the thousands expected to line both sides of the Mersey from around 4.40pm.

Star Fireworks, one of the most successful and experienced firework display companies in Europe and the current British Fireworks Champion of Champions, are delivering the show. Andy Hubble the company’s MD said:

“We’re delighted to be able to announce that the Twister Aerobatic Team are part of River of Light.

“I’ve worked with them on many occasions and wherever they perform, the reaction from the crowds when they see the skill and talent of the team on display is amazing.

“We’ve enjoyed working with Liverpool and Wirral councils to stage this brand new event and I hope as many people as possible head to the waterfront to enjoy this firework spectacular.”

Providing the bespoke soundtrack to the evening will be official media partner Radio City 96.7 which will broadcast River of Light live on air and online via their media player. The webcam from the top of the Radio City tower will also be streaming the display live on the Radio City website for those who can’t make it on the night. It will also be available via their free Radio City app.

Chris Rick, Radio City’s Content Director, said:

“Seeing the skyline above the Mersey illuminated in a rainbow of colours will be a sight to behold. There’s nothing more magical than watching a firework display, that is unless you do it to music! Seeing the fireworks go off in rhythm to the music on Radio City with make it a Fifth of November to remember.”

The running order of the evening is as follows:

• 4pm– Build up begins with Bring The Fire street entertainment at Albert Dock Salthouse Quay, Mann Island, Princes Parade and Hamilton Square/Woodside Ferry Terminal in Wirral.
• 4.40pm– Twister Aerobatic Team takes to the skies for approximately 10 minutes
• 5.30pmto approx. 6.15pm – Les Commandos Percu and Deabru Beltzak, a group of world renowned drummers will parade from Liverpool Town Hall in a spectacular fusion of percussion and pyrotechnics.
• 6.30pm– Mid-River fireworks display begins.
• 6.50pm– Show ends.

Liverpool’s Assistant Mayor and cabinet member for culture, tourism and events, Councillor Wendy Simon, said:

“There is a real buzz around this weekend and it’s great to see people embrace this new, family friendly event.

“When it comes to our events, we always like to push the boundaries and go above and beyond what audiences expect – and I think, a group of drummers with sparks and pyrotechnics flying from them, planes which will light up the sky over the Mersey and of course a mid-river fireworks display does just that!

“It is set to be an unforgettable evening and I encourage as many people as possible to head to both Liverpool and Wirral waterfronts and enjoy the sizzling sights on offer!”

Please note, there will be no official fireworks displays taking place in Sefton or Newsham Park.

Merseyrail is the easiest way to get to the event on both sides of the Mersey, with stations at New Brighton and Hamilton Square for the Wirral waterfront and Liverpool Central or James Street for the Liverpool waterfront. Trains run frequently across Merseyside and tickets start from just £1.80. Plan your journey at www.merseyrail.org

For the latest information about the event visit www.riveroflightfireworks.co.uk. To access a Google Map of the site visit http://bit.ly/ROLmap16. A map outlining the activity on the Liverpool side of the River is attached.

Those attending the event are asked not to bring their own fireworks, sparklers or Chinese lanterns.

They are also asked not to bring dogs to the display.

The city council is working closely with Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service and Merseyside Police to ensure people enjoy 5 November safely and reduce the problems which can be associated with this time of year.

The Twister Aerobatic Team’s display is subject to weather conditions and their involvement in River of Light could change.

The performance of the drummers is part of the Global Streets Strategic Touring Programme which is supported by Arts Council England.