A social media campaign has been launched to hold the Stornoway New Year firework display at 12 midnight on December 31.
The Facebook page ‘Stornoway New Year Firework Display’ has attracted nearly 500 likes since it was set up last week.
The unnamed page owners say they are seeking ‘feedback from locals all over the island about their thoughts’ on whether the annual firework display should remain at 10.30pm or should celebrations coincide with the bells.
However, the unpaid volunteers at Stornoway Amenity Trust -
This New Year Eve event will start at 9pm and culminate in the firework display at 10.30pm.
Charlie Nicolson of Stornoway Amenity Trust said: “The majority of people in contact with us backed having it earlier so children and families could come and could get back home for the bells.”
“So that is what we have done in the past few years,” he explained.
Mr Nicolson said he had no objection in campaigners organising their own separate fireworks display for midnight.
Local Facebook users have given their pros and cons, with responses being divided.
Some point to an earlier start meaning families could enjoy the fireworks and still get home in time for the bells.
Others believe that midnight is the only time to celebrate the coming of the new year.
“I don’t get why they do it so early, we must be the only place in the world that does this? Correct time please,” said one person.
Another added: “The New Year fireworks are lovely and I’m sure a lot of money is spent but it lacks serious atmosphere.”
“I don't see why people don't try it out even just once and if it's a success then that’s amazing for the island because it will for sure bring people to the island and people mean money and money means change,” one lady said.
Another Facebook user recalled: “I remember when they did the display at midnight before and we all did Auld Lang Syne in front of the Town Hall. There were quite a few kids there then. It was great. Think that was 2002. The atmosphere was brilliant.”
One islander commented: “Sorry guys, I’m glad they moved it to 10 ‘cos it means the kids can go out and enjoy the fireworks too and you can be back indoors with your families to take in the bells at midnight.
“People from the villages can’t get over to town to see the fireworks if it’s at midnight and take in the bells with their families at home, but they can if it’s at 10.”
Campaign to change fireworks display time
18 December 2014