Firework gift helps Norwich cancer walk go with a bang

Matthew SparkesA charity event in Norwich this summer will go off with a bang thanks to a local fireworks expert. The Starlight Walk sees fundraisers hike 13 miles around the city's ring road in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support on June 18.Matthew Sparkes

A charity event in Norwich this summer will go off with a bang thanks to a local fireworks expert.

The Starlight Walk sees fundraisers hike 13 miles around the city's ring road in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support on June 18.

It is supported by donations from local firms so every penny raised goes directly to making life easier for cancer sufferers in Norfolk.

The charity provides specialist staff to help patients with their treatment, but also offers emotional, financial and practical support.

Des Fulcher, 46, runs Swainsthorpe-based fireworks display company Flash FX and has pledged to send walkers off in style.

'What we're going to do is bring along some of our licensed fireworks, and it will be quite spectacular', he said.

'We'll add some real spectacle and give it a proper start,' he said.

But because the walk starts at midnight he has carefully chosen the fireworks to be as considerate as possible to neighbours.

Mr Fulcher, who lives in Long Stratton, said that his family has been affected by cancer and that he applauded the work that Macmillan does.

'My wife lost her mum when she was seven to cancer. Only this week my mum lost her best friend,' he said.

'It's a hard thing. It's just so harsh.'

'It's such a good cause. I applaud anyone who's willing to undertake work with people with cancer.'

The walk has raised �200,000 in just four years. 'They're making a superb effort,' he said.

Mr Fulcher said that he has been setting off fireworks for 20 years and that it was a 'hobby that's got a bit overgrown'.

'I do have quite a bit of passion for it,' he said.

He even got married on November 5, to Charlotte, which he admits makes displays on that night 'out of bounds'.

His partner in the company, Paul Heddell, also works for film and television doing special effects and puts on explosions for battle re-enactments.

Are you taking part in the Starlight Walk? Tell us why by calling reporter Matthew Sparkes on 01603 772439 or by emailing matthew.sparkes@archant.co.uk.

For more information on the Starlight Walk or to register to take part, visit www.starlightwalknorwich.co.uk or call 01603 593779.

To see more coverage on the Starlight Walk visit the Evening News at www.eveningnews24.co.uk/starlight.