Perth’s popular annual fireworks display on November 5 could become a thing of the past.
The event – which raises thousands of pounds for local charities and is attended by thousands – is organised by Perth and Strathearn Round Table.
But with currently only four members, the group is seeking to grow its numbers so it can continue running the Bonfire Night event on Perth’s South Inch.
Local councillors have also tightened the purse strings on funding for the spectacle. This year the Perth Common Good Fund Committee cut the Perth Fireworks Display budget to £20,000. Previously, in 2023 the committee awarded “up to £22,000” from the council fund.
But working to a tight budget is not the only issue facing the depleted Perth Strathearn Round Table.
Chairman Euan Burnett told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: “We currently have four members in our Perth group and although there isn’t a minimum requirement for numbers, the more members we have the easier it is to arrange activities (usually monthly) and organise events such as the Bonfire and Fireworks Night. Also, due to the age restrictions of Round Table (18-45), if we don’t keep bringing younger guys in, the group will naturally decrease in size over time too.
“In terms of the fireworks, we’re very fortunate that some of us have work-related contacts that we can rely on to assist in terms of volunteers and plant etc. without which, the event wouldn’t be possible. As we get older and age out, this may prove harder moving forward.”
Perth and Strathearn Round Table is one of 300 Round Tables across the British Isles. The organisation dates back to 1927 and its aim is “having fun, making new friends and trying something new”.
The group is for men aged 18-45. The guys meet once or twice a month for food and fun.
Euan said: “We try to meet at least once a month for some food and a fun activity. Previous activities we’ve tried in the last year or so include: paddleboarding, kayaking, go-karting, axe throwing, ghost walk, bowling and rock climbing.
“The best way for people to get involved initially is to message us on Facebook, we can then pass on details of the next catch-up/activity and get them along.”
And if ladies are feeling left out, they can join its sister organisation, Ladies Circle Scotland.