Light and firework show ends after eight-year run

Thousands of people have attended the show since it began in 2017

A popular light trail and firework display is returning for the final time to Sheffield Botanical Gardens after an eight-year run.

Illuminate The Gardens, which runs from 7-9 November, will include light installations, walking performances and shows from the glasshouse.

Calling time on the event founder, Bob Worm, said he would not "cut corners" on quality to afford to keep putting on the show, so planned to "go out with a bang, properly".

"It's about giving people an opportunity to step out of the politics, step out of the drudgery, come along and let the light in," Mr Worm said.

"We've got a great legacy, we've done something brilliant here, but you can't sustain it."

When the event started in 2017, adult tickets cost £6.50 but have risen to £20 over the years, with organisers "forever trying to modulate the formula" of costs, he said.

Despite tickets having nearly sold out, Mr Worm said they had only broken even yesterday.

"People think we're rolling in money, we're not," he said

"It's not about massive profits, it's about delivering something for the family, for the community."

Multiple fireworks shows are planned for the weekend

Illuminate The Gardens was one of four light trails in the country when it started, but it is now one of 226, Mr Worm said.

He said: "You get to a point [when you think] when does the boxer stop chasing the belt?

"So, we've said, 'okay, don't force it, let's deliver the last show'."

Free kids' activities including arts and crafts will be available and a low-noise display "perfect for young children" will take place earlier in the evening.

The gardens will be "lovingly lit" to highlight the architectural and natural beauty of the area.

"The garden itself is really the star of the show and it's a beautiful environment to light," Mr Worm said.

"It belongs to the people of Sheffield, whatever we do, it's about the people that come so all the fantastic lights and displays.

"Without the people, I'd just be stood there going, 'it looks great'.

"I'm ever so grateful that we've done what we've done."

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