TONIGHT is the night when James Bond comes to town with an explosive entrance.

TONIGHT is the night when James Bond comes to town with an explosive entrance.

This is the night of the year when fireworks lovers from around Ipswich make their way to Christchurch Park for one of the most exciting events of the year.

Organisers are hoping that more than 20,000 people will converge on the park for the annual fireworks display.

This year's event promises to be even more dramatic than ever when the James Bond-themed evening starts with a helicopter dropping off the daring character in the park.

Graeme Kalbraier, managing director of Call Connection, is lending his own helicopter to the event for the stunt. He said he was honoured to be asked to take part in the charity fundraising event.

He said: “It will be a low level swoop in the moon light.

“I thought it was a great idea when I was approached and wanted to help out.

“Helicopters are very exciting anyway but in the dark with all their lights on it is even more exciting.”

Final preparations were today being put in place to make sure the 35th annual event organised by the 11th Ipswich Scouts goes smoothly.

Caroline Wheeler-Rowe, spokeswoman for the scouts, said: “Last year we had in excess of 20,000 people come to watch and this year the weather forecast is better and the display is more exciting so we hope to attract more.”

Tickets for tonight's event, which is supported by The Evening Star, are £7.50 for adults and £4.50 for children aged five to 15 years. They are available at the gate.

Gates open at 6pm and the display starts at 8pm. The event will raise money for local charities and the scout group.

There will be a variety of pre-display entertainment on two music stages and a children's funfair. Local bands Soul Kitchen and Spooky will be performing and food and drink will also be available.

WEBLINK: www.ipswichfireworks.com