The JTYAF was honoured to be chosen as one of the supported charities for the recent Hearnes Ferndown Firework Event. This fantastic community event, organised by FunFest Events, was an outstanding success on every level.

The firework display itself was both highly professional and truly spectacular, and with free entry, it provided a wonderful opportunity for many families who might otherwise have missed out on such an unforgettable and magical evening. The JTYAF stall, which sold sparklers and glowies, was also a tremendous success; we were literally run off our muddy feet by enthusiastic youngsters who were absolutely thrilled with their purchases.

Over 5,000 people attended the event! The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with comments highlighting how safe people felt thanks to the many marshals present, the smooth and efficient management of car parking, the fantastic quality of the firework display, and the overall enjoyment experienced by everyone throughout the evening.

An army of dedicated volunteers made this event possible. Special thanks must go to our wonderful JTYAF Volunteers, the staff and Sixth Form students of Ferndown Upper School, the Ferndown Squadron Air Cadets, Bournemouth Sea Cadets, Royal Marine Cadets, Ferndown Rotary Club, Simon from Dojo, and last but certainly not least, our very own Geoff Beck. Geoff was responsible for organising an absolutely spectacular display, with an incredible 10,260 firework shots fired in just 12 minutes! This amazing achievement is something he should feel extremely proud of.

On behalf of everyone here at the John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation, I would like to sincerely thank all who supported the event. This occasion not only enabled us to raise vital funds, but also helped to shine an important spotlight on the work we do within the community. We are delighted to share that, as a direct result of everyone’s hard work and generosity, an impressive total of £3,352.50 was raised from the sale of glowies and sparklers, car park fees, marshall collections, and Justgiving donations. After covering the costs for the glowies and sparklers, which amounted to £707.28, the net total available to the foundation is an outstanding £2,645.22 – a truly fabulous result that will make a significant difference.

These funds will allow us to provide opportunities, financial help and practical support to local young people—particularly those facing financial obstacles. It is a privilege to help these individuals pursue their ambitions and grow, just as John did. We know John would be immensely proud of what has been achieved in his name, and it is thanks to wonderful supporters like this that his legacy continues.