THE 1999 World Firework Championships drew to a dramatic and disappointing close on Sunday (October 10) - but plans for Blackpool's next display have already blasted off.

Top UK company Kimbolton Fireworks' non-competitive display was forced to be cut short after only five minutes when heavy winds began to blow falling sparks towards the crowd. No-one was seriously injured and event organisers Leisure Parcs and Blackpool Council have apologised for any disappointment.

Council head of tourism Jane Seddon explained: "We do apologise for the crowd's dissatisfaction on Sunday. But the decision was made in the interests of public safety.

"Nonetheless this was an excellent and thoroughly enjoyable four weeks for Blackpool, full of glamour, gunpowder and style. "Plans are already underway for Kimbolton's Millennium Eve display and we are looking at all eventualities should the weather be similar."

Italian display team Pirotechnica Soldi were announced 1999 World Firework Champions before Kimbolton's display. Kimbolton, who staged the handover fireworks display in Honk Kong harbour in 1997, drew the competition to a close after displays from teams from Taiwan, China and Italy the three previous Sundays.

Leisure Parcs managing director Marc Etches said: "Italy's colour and sound made them the true winners of 1999.

"Only Blackpool can combine spectacular firework displays and the unique Illuminations bringing thousands of visitors to the resort."

Chinese display team Inter Oriental Fireworks took second spot, while the San Tai team from Taiwan, who performed on the first Sunday (September 19) came third.

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