Fireworks returning to estate

Shugborough’s popular music and fireworks spectacular will return next year, following the departure of the estate’s manager.

Organisers two months ago said they were pulling out of staging further events at the estate because general manager Richard Kemp “hindered” their efforts.

But, since Mr Kemp left last month, the City Concert Organisation – which organises and promotes the Music and Fireworks Weekend – has announced the event will go ahead next summer.

Adrian Jackson, who owns the City Concert Organisation, said it would take place on August 1 and 2, and promised to be “the best yet”.

He said: “After several meetings with management, I am now totally reassured that Shugborough will be able to support our plans for 2008.

“We are very happy to be back at what is the region’s most stunning venue for outdoor concerts.” In September, Mr Jackson announced his firm was pulling out, claiming Mr Kemp was only interested in having in-house events at the estate and used a rival promoter to provide the on-line booking service for the CCO event. 

But Mr Kemp refuted the claims, saying he was proud of changes in the way Shugborough had been managed since he moved there four years ago.

During his time at the estate, Mr Kemp attracted criticism for his focus on Shugborough as a “living history” attraction, rather than as a venue for big outside events. He took voluntary redundancy from Staffordshire County Council last month, as part of a re-organisation of its marketing operation. 

The estate’s next large event is the series of Candlelit Christmas Evenings, running from December 5 to 8.