THE 30th anniversary Sticklepath Fireshow will go ahead this November following a surge of local support.

After the annual bonfire spectacular came under threat due to a lack of volunteers, a recent emergency meeting in South Zeal led to the co-option of two new committee members and a new designated wood collector.

Janice Goodwin, fireshow chairperson, said: 'We are thrilled to have had such a great response from local people. Local children will now be able to continue to enjoy the Crafty Capers summer workshops and to take part in this spectacular event.

'It's great to see so many new and old faces signing up to help. We can now crack on with organising what promises to be a fantastic anniversary show.'

This year's show will take place on Saturday, November 2 at Finch Foundry. The theme is still top secret, but as always the set and bonfire will only be made possible by donations of good quality used structural timber. Mark Tansley, the new wood collector, is keen to put out an early appeal for wood.

He said: 'Think of us if you're planning any renovations, a barn conversion or roof work this year. People may not realise that timber from their house can be hugely useful.

'You can find more details of what we can and cannot use on our website. We are also always on the lookout for volunteers with suitable transport and the odd hour to spare to get the wood to the site.'

Despite the support received, the continuation of the fireshow beyond 2013 still needs to be secured. Several key players and committee members are looking to step down, including chairperson Janice Goodwin and chief marshall Tony Clarke. Mr Clarke is hoping to recruit a trainee chief marshall this year so he can provide full training for the role, which involves co-ordinating the 70 or so marshalls who look after the public on the night and keep the show safe.

Other roles soon to be vacant include artistic director and health and safety officer. Anyone interested in taking on one of these key roles is encouraged to attend monthly committee meetings and shadow key volunteers and committee members to start learning now what's involved in organising and staging the fireshow.

Hilary Gillespie, artistic director, said: "The future of the fireshow still needs to be secured and the skills involved learnt by a new generation of volunteers. Now more than ever, we need younger people to come forward and learn the knowledge and skills needed to ensure the fireshow, and the children's creative workshops, continue to be a unique part of regional life.'

Dave Goodwin, fireshow health and safety officer, said: 'We often hear about how our communities are not as friendly these days. Events like Sticklepath Fireshow bring people together with a common purpose and help strengthen bonds between neighbours, between younger and older generations through everyone working together. Come and get involved and help make your community even stronger.'

For more information on how you can get involved visit http://www.sticklepathfireshow.co.uk">www.sticklepathfireshow.co.uk or call 01837 840334.

The ever popular fundraising summer quiz sheets are also on sale now at £1 from the shops and pubs in South Zeal and Sticklepath, as well as from Rockin' Beads in Red Lion Yard in Okehampton or J Stores in North Tawton.

If you think you may have suitable wood to donate or could help with transport you can email Mark Tansley at [email protected]">[email protected]