Blackpool’s sky lit up on Saturday night (September 7) as the World Fireworks Championship started.

Crowds gathered at Blackpool Promenade as Nakaja Art, from Poland, kicked off the competition on Saturday.

With more than 25 years of experience, the team has conducted numerous fireworks displays across Europe and Central America.

Remembered for the biggest spectacle in their home country, they once orchestrated a grand show at a Jean Michel Jarre concert in Krakow

Photographer Lee Mansfield managed to take some pictures of the display.

Two more teams will showcase their skills at Tower Festival Headland, with the next displays set to take place on the evenings of September 21, and October 5.

Synched to music, these spectacular fireworks displays will launch from the beach, creating a stirring backdrop for the iconic Blackpool Tower.

Week two will witness Pyroman Finland Ltd lighting up the Blackpool sky.

As Finland’s leading supplier of pyrotechnics and special effects, they were part of the Eurovision Contest’s pyrotechnic displays ten times, including a major part in the 2024 event.

"Events call for a touch of bizarre creativity and a profound understanding of music and events technology.

"We cannot wait to entertain you," said a company representative.

The final display on October 5 will be by Great Lakes Fireworks.

Established in 1992, the Michigan-based company aspires to turn ordinary moments into extraordinary memories.

They draw inspiration from the shimmering waters of the Great Lakes in North America.

A Great Lakes Fireworks spokesperson said: "Over the years, we have mastered the alchemy of colour, sound, and spectacle."

Announcing the names of the three competing teams, Cllr Lynn Williams, leader of Blackpool Council, said: "Firework nights are something very special in the Blackpool calendar and we can’t wait to see what our three new international competitors are planning.

"Judging by the expertise and artistry of the teams participating, I think we can safely say the displays are going to be spectacularly good."

The World Fireworks Championship is part of Blackpool’s major autumn and winter events programme, which also includes - Ride The Lights, Illuminations Switch-On, Lightpool Festival, and Christmas By The Sea festivities.