Was there a particular reason why the fireworks had to be of the large expensive variety? Local firework displays and even party in the park was not so "banging". One could feel the vibrations, from the bottom of LL, before hearing the explosions. Many would be less of the "wining, cynical grumps" as you put it hazza if those around had warning, it wasn't done on a Sunday late into the evening, wasn't so big and generally involved the community. As suggested by Townleygreen it was/ is meant to be the start of wonderful opportunities so why weren't the community a part of it as well?