Glitter and glow get the party started

Jan 1 2009 by Kim Carmichael, The Journal

A FOUNTAIN of fireworks lit up the Newcastle skyline last night as thousands of people gathered to bring in the New Year early.

Partygoers had thronged through the city centre as a glowing parade of illuminated cars branded Glowmobiles brought a carnival atmosphere to the streets.

Families braved the sub-zero temperatures to watch the illuminated cyclists and fire-breathing vehicles light up Grey’s Monument, then Northumberland Street, as they made their way to Newcastle Civic Centre amid music and dance.

And after the thousands of people snaked their way through the city, a spectacular fireworks display peppered the sky in an early-evening celebration.

Among those who turned out to witness the event was Chris Baxter, 44, who owns his own business, and his wife Heather, 37, from Chester-le-Street in County Durham.

The pair brought their three-year-old son Luke, who attends Castle View Nursery in Chester-le-Street, to enjoy the festivities.

Heather said: “It’s brilliant. I feel really privileged to be here so close and witnessing it.

“Luke thinks it’s fantastic, he loves the lights and he loves the cars. He has been mesmerised.”

Meanwhile, Mary and Eddy Wallace, both 80 and originally from Jesmond in Newcastle, travelled more than 280 miles from Portsmouth to celebrate in their home town.

Mrs Wallace said: “I have never known it this cold, but it’s worth it for something so amazing.

“We come back every year because there is nowhere else in the country where you can do things like this.”

The 20 illuminated Glowmobiles were transformed by specially-commissioned artists to mark the climax of the NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival.

The display, which featured vehicles ranging from a pedal-powered airship to a giant silver fish, brought the city to a halt as they entertained people on the street.

Andy Hazell, 49, from Powys in Wales, transformed three cars into a spaceship, a fish and an 8ft ice palace for the event.

He said: “This is the second year I’ve been involved and I really enjoy taking part.

“It’s an excuse to be a bit mad, which is something we Brits are very good at and the reaction from people has been great, despite the very cold weather.

“I drove from Wales in the ice palace, but had to be careful for low bridges. I was stopped by the police twice and the other motorists were quite stunned by the sight of us.”

Visitors to the event were encouraged to illuminate themselves with glowing badges, hats, glow sticks or even whole costumes.

A Transformation Station was at Grey’s Monument, with Glowbeauticians helping people to brighten up in preparation for the parade. Jennifer Johnstone, 23, a student from Whitley Bay, was one of those being transformed.

She said: “I came to the parade last year and am looking forward to getting involved again tonight. The cars are really unusual, I’ve never seen anything like them before.”

Andrew Jones, 39, from Gateshead, was at the event with his eight-year-old son, Owen. He said: “It’s certainly something that you don’t expect to see in the middle of town.

“It’s crazy, but I think it’s good to help celebrate New Year’s Eve and the kids certainly like it.”