Half term certainly began with a bang!

Families were wowed by a colourful fireworks show on Wednesday night, which saw fireworks of all colours, shapes, sounds and sizes let off in Open in Norwich, a grade II listed building.

The explosive show, by internationally recognised pyrotechnician Matthew Tosh, marked the beginning of the Norwich Science Festival, which starts officially on Friday and runs until October 27.

The show demonstrated how science, technology, engineering and mathematics ensure that displays are both accurate and safe for the public.

Mr Tosh has previously worked behind the scenes of firework displays and live performances, and has always been fascinated by how they come together.

Norwich Evening News: Pyrotechnician Matthew Tosh during his pyrotechnic science show at the Open. Picture: DENISE BRADLEYPyrotechnician Matthew Tosh during his pyrotechnic science show at the Open. Picture: DENISE BRADLEY (Image: Copyright: Archant 2018)

His live stage shows have been a huge hit with all age ranges and his work has become internationally recognised by the global fireworks industry.

The Norwich Science Festival, now in its third year, will run through half term until Saturday, October 27, with more than 135 events for all ages.

It will see nine days of exhibitions, shows and an hands-on science.

Well-known names such as Chris Packham, Benedict Allen, Great British Bake Off finalist Andrew Smyth and Springwatch presenter Lucy Cooke will be holding their own events throughout the festival, along with a virtual reality space bus with narration from Tim Peake.

Norwich Evening News: Pyrotechnician Matthew Tosh during his pyrotechnic science show at the Open. Picture: DENISE BRADLEYPyrotechnician Matthew Tosh during his pyrotechnic science show at the Open. Picture: DENISE BRADLEY (Image: Copyright: Archant 2018)

This year, more than 100 scientists from the University of East Anglia and the other five partners that make up the Norwich Research Park are taking part by showcasing cutting-edge research taking place in East Anglia.

David Parfrey, executive chair of Norwich Research Park said: 'We are delighted to again be playing a key part in this year's Norwich Science Festival.

'Norwich Research Park is a unique mix that blends a major university teaching hospital with a leading university and internationally important research institutes.'

For more information on all events and to book, visit the Norwich Science Festival website, or pick up a brochure from The Forum, tourist information centres, venues and libraries around the county.

Norwich Evening News: Pyrotechnician Matthew Tosh during his pyrotechnic science show at the Open. Picture: DENISE BRADLEYPyrotechnician Matthew Tosh during his pyrotechnic science show at the Open. Picture: DENISE BRADLEY (Image: Copyright: Archant 2018)

Norwich Evening News: Pyrotechnician Matthew Tosh during his pyrotechnic science show at the Open. Picture: DENISE BRADLEYPyrotechnician Matthew Tosh during his pyrotechnic science show at the Open. Picture: DENISE BRADLEY (Image: Copyright: Archant 2018)

Norwich Evening News: Pyrotechnician Matthew Tosh during his pyrotechnic science show at the Open. Picture: DENISE BRADLEYPyrotechnician Matthew Tosh during his pyrotechnic science show at the Open. Picture: DENISE BRADLEY (Image: Copyright: Archant 2018)

Norwich Evening News: Pyrotechnician Matthew Tosh during his pyrotechnic science show at the Open. Picture: DENISE BRADLEYPyrotechnician Matthew Tosh during his pyrotechnic science show at the Open. Picture: DENISE BRADLEY (Image: Copyright: Archant 2018)

Norwich Evening News: Pyrotechnician Matthew Tosh producing a loud bang from a firework in a bomb tank during his pyrotechnic science show at the Open. Picture: DENISE BRADLEYPyrotechnician Matthew Tosh producing a loud bang from a firework in a bomb tank during his pyrotechnic science show at the Open. Picture: DENISE BRADLEY (Image: Copyright: Archant 2018)