KIRRIEMUIR’S traditional bonfire night will go ahead as planned this evening, but the group behind the event fears red tape may threaten not only its future but their very existence.

Against rising costs, dwindling funds and a shortage of volunteers, Kirrie and District Round Table has rallied to lead the organisation of the bonfire and fireworks display on The Hill.

They will be supported by sister organisation Ladies Circle, Tayside Police, Tayside Fire and Rescue and the Red Cross when the programme gets under way at 6.30 tonight, and have employed 21st Century Fireworks to deliver what they say is a safe and spectacular alternative to back garden bonfire night activities.

But the Tablers have been stung by a three-figure bill after paying for a local authority event licence, and group chairman Ralph Neave said pressures on the club are undermining its vitality and viability.

Tonight’s event is free, but Round Table members hope collecting buckets will be filled to help meet the costs of the display and perhaps leave some left over for charity support.

“A last-minute hitch this year compelled Round Table to apply for a public entertainment licence from Angus Council’s Law and Administration department for the first time—the same situation as Carnoustie Coastguard found themselves in recently,” said Mr Neave.

“The situation for Round Table is however slightly worse as, although we raise huge amounts of money for charities and good causes at local and national level, individual clubs are not registered charities in their own right.

“As a result we are not eligible for the reduced fee for charities and have to pay the full cost of £123 for a licence which requires renewal annually.

“Rather than incur cancellation costs with no benefit to the community, members agreed to pay the additional licensing costs to ensure the event could go ahead.

“The long-term future of the event is however in jeopardy as costs are escalating year on year and something which cost less than £500 to stage just a few years ago is now costing well in excess of £1500 to put on.

“The event is funded entirely from the Round Table Community Service account.

“We receive no financial support from the council or any other body for this event, although we are grateful to the neighbourhood services department for permission to use the ground and their staff who tidy up the bonfire after the event.”