Thousands join together for Sultan fireworks display
By Connor Steel
THOUSANDS of local residents joined together to watch the annual ‘Bonfire Night and Fireworks Spectacular’ held at HMS Sultan on Thursday evening (October 29); which helped to celebrate the seventieth anniversary for this Gosport-based training establishment and proved to be a brilliant occasion for everybody in attendance under lovely conditions.
This event started at 5:30pm with crowds enjoying the large range of funfair rides including a ghost train and ‘dodgem’ bumper cars; whilst the food area was full throughout the evening selling its variety of hot and cold snacks. There was further the chance to purchase glow sticks and small strobe lights that fully added to the colourful air under fading sky.
A single firework was released at 7:30pm before the bonfire was lit to big cheers fifteen minutes later; its bright orange flames illumining the skies and surrounding area. All proceedings were marshalled brilliantly by popular Nation Radios presenter, Mark Collins, who gave multiple countdowns before this awaited fireworks finale began promptly at 8:30pm.
Crowds watched the skies as a nearly constant nineteen minute spectacle brought colours above them; many gasping at the rockets, bangs, crackles, and catherine wheels flying brightly. This display was accompanied by a fine backtrack of themed and popular music including a rendition of Katy Perry’s Firework with many taking videos and dancing along.
Although thousands of people purchased a ticket to gain access, there was other people who took a chance to line the streets nearby and watch the fireworks from outside HMS Sultan. This included large family groups of ‘all ages’ as well as dogs whilst others enjoyed the spectacle from outside the Cocked Hat Pub and sampled a good view of this display.
It was also good to see the display return to Gosport following the same event last year; which was scaled back due to wind gusts and weather warnings that prevented fireworks being set off. There was no such issues for the 2026 edition as slightly warmer temperatures and dry skies awaited visitors, whilst this ground / grass provided an easier navigation.
A reader told the Globe: “As usual at Sultan these fireworks were great to watch and gave us something to look ahead to during the Half term holiday. It was lovely to see families of all ages come together and enjoy the night together; lots of photographs were taken with laughter and fun. This is our third year of going and it is now our little Autumn tradition.”
This occasion helped to raise valuable funding towards HMS Sultan’s Services Charity which supports the wellbeing of those working / training within this establishment and their families. Credit should further be given to all the base’s staff and volunteers who ensured safety throughout their evening, whilst being approachable and friendly to everyone there.
PICTURED BY HMS SULTAN MEDIA (LT SI ARNOLD): Crowds of visitors enjoy Sultan’s firework display on Thursday.
