An even bigger mix for Illuminations 2006

Date Published : 17 August 2006

The stratosphere at night - one of the new atractions for Illuminations 2006.

Walsall Council leisure bosses are set to unveil a spectacular 15 metre high stratosphere as part of Illuminations 2006.

Crowds will be able to marvel at the moving images projected onto the giant sphere which is set to take a starring role at the heart of the Arboretum having travelled the world from Hong Kong to Paris to London to Walsall.

Also being lined up is the largest water animations the event has ever seen - the giant 40 metre high Supersonic Watercolours, designed by local artist Chu.

Tim Challans, Walsall Council assistant director of leisure, culture and lifelong learning, said: “We are very excited about the Illuminations this year and I’m proud to be able to announce the fabulous line up.

“There is something there for all ages and plenty of new things to see and do. We’ve really pulled out all the stops this year with the stratosphere and supersonic watercolours being the main attractions.

“The Ferris wheel proved to be a big hit with the crowds and we’ve got that back by public demand.”

There is lots of live entertainment to enjoy with the silent comedy of Chaplin’s Bright Spark, the Bugtastic UV puppet lights show and mirth and mayhem from comedy pirates Chester and Wolly.

Visitors can also join in the special treasure trail designed by children from Park Hall Junior School to win a family holiday to Disneyland Paris. There is even a chance to meet special characters Pirate Pete and the Baby Dinosaur as you explore the park.

Special appearances are planned by children’s TV character SpongeBob SquarePants, family film stars Wallace and Gromit and Jake from CBBC’s smash hit show the Tweenies.

The sponsors list of honour this year includes Ikea, Walsall Football Club, Black Country Tourism, the Village Hotel Walsall, the University of Wolverhampton, Walsall-based Hadens Solicitors, Co-op Travel and Mid Counties Co-operative.

The sponsors have contributed a combined total of more than £115,000 with the figure still rising.

Tickets which start at £5 for adults and £3.50 for children are available by calling 0845 111 2900. For more information log on at www.walsall-lights.com.