In 1964, Reverend Ron Lancaster MBE founded Kimbolton Fireworks in a small workshop, dedicating his career to research and innovation in pyrotechnics. From these humble beginnings, the company went on to provide spectacular displays for prestigious events including the Handover of Hong Kong, St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin, Hogmanay in Edinburgh, and the Mayor of London’s New Year’s Eve Display.
When Kimbolton Fireworks entered administration in early 2019, Phoenix Fireworks acquired the assets of the company to preserve its long and distinguished legacy within the industry.
Kimbolton Fireworks now operates as part of Phoenix Fireworks, with Phoenix specialising in displays & Kimbolton in trade sales & importation. Kimbolton’s renowned product range has been integrated with Phoenix’s extensive catalogue, while maintaining the importation of high-quality fireworks from Europe and the Far East – ensuring customers continue to enjoy the best variety and value for money.
Professional Displays since 1972
Originally the company was owned by Ian Craig (a long time resident of Sevenoaks) and subsequently was taken over by Martin Coffin. Under new ownership for over 25 years, the company has undergone major investment and improvements; ultimately leading to the collection of the two major British awards and one major International award in the industry.
Phoenix Fireworks is based in Wrotham, Kent.
Safety is a by-word within our profession, Enshrined in that culture is Phoenix’s need to maintain the highest possible safety standards.
Planning for a successful display is an absolute must. The display you see on the evening is the culmination of a long and detailed exercise in fireworks selection, music selection, layout and of course design. Once these elements are brought together the fireworks are fused and put onto frames for display. This process can take weeks to complete.
In 2019, Phoenix Fireworks also acquired the long established and respected Kimbolton Fireworks. Phoenix and Kimbolton will run alongside each other, with Phoenix specializing in displays and Kimbolton in retail and trade sales.
Phoenix Fireworks have won three major competitions – The Malta International Fireworks Festival, the British Fireworks Championships & the British Musical Fireworks Championships.
British Pyrotechnists’ Association
The British Pyrotechnists’ Association (BPA) is the recognized industry trade body for professional fireworks companies. Unlike the EIG, the BPA has minimum requirements in terms of membership – these are: adherence to a published code of conduct, correct insurance and storage facilities and licenses. There are other trade bodies where the requirement is simply to pay a small fee. The membership of the BPA represent the best in the industry.
As an organization we have instigated the only training and qualification system for those engaged in fireworks displays.
All our staff have been trained and have taken (and passed) the BPA examination system to either Firers or Senior Firers level. This exam is likely to be adopted by the EU as a definition of competency in the forthcoming legislation on fireworks.
MEET THE TEAM
All full-time staff are fully trained Senior BPA Firers.
