Gunpowder, treason and plod... (From York Press)

sortyorkout wrote:
"Everyone is having a really good time," said Danielle Brodie, marketing manager for organisers Rat Race Adventure Sports.

Let me start this feedback page by saying Danielle, you were clearly at a different Rat Race venue last night. People were leaving in their hundreds before the fireworks started it was that badly organised. An hour long delay for fireworks? 45 minute queues for food and drink? No communication at all as to when the fireworks started. By the time a lot of people got their having been at work that day, the fire was practically out.
If people had strayed onto the fallout zone for the fireworks, what were your security team doing about it?
I will be writing a letter of complaint and expecting a full refund for my family. I wish I had not paid as when i showed my ticket email, no one checked it and just waved us through.

What a massive disappointment.

RenRoyale wrote:
Sad to see such a slating, yes there are certainly some learns for if they ever do it again, the organisation was a bit all over the place but it was the first time it was here and a bloody good effort was made to FINALLY have something in the town (or close to) rather than having to trek out to the maze. It was family friendly, and before anyone tells me their poor kids didnt get into bed until 10pm on a school night, well, its bonfire night and it just so happened to fall on a school night, you make your choice. As for being cold, again I remind people its the 5th November, wrap up warm, were Rat Race expected to supply everyone with their own portable heater! I was one of the runners, Ive never done anything like this before and have trained for it, I had a really good time, a good atmosphere, spectacular fireworks, some cracking live music and luckily, because all you moaning minnies left it meant I walked straight to the bar and got served no fuss! So thanks!

RenRoyale wrote:
Sad to see such a slating, yes there are certainly some learns for if they ever do it again, the organisation was a bit all over the place but it was the first time it was here and a bloody good effort was made to FINALLY have something in the town (or close to) rather than having to trek out to the maze.
It was family friendly, and before anyone tells me their poor kids didnt get into bed until 10pm on a school night, well, its bonfire night and it just so happened to fall on a school night, you make your choice.
As for being cold, again I remind people its the 5th November, wrap up warm, were Rat Race expected to supply everyone with their own portable heater!

I was one of the runners, Ive never done anything like this before and have trained for it, I had a really good time, a good atmosphere, spectacular fireworks, some cracking live music and luckily, because all you moaning minnies left it meant I walked straight to the bar and got served no fuss! So thanks!

RenRoyale wrote:
Sad to see such a slating, yes there are certainly some learns for if they ever do it again, the organisation was a bit all over the place but it was the first time it was here and a bloody good effort was made to FINALLY have something in the town (or close to) rather than having to trek out to the maze.
It was family friendly, and before anyone tells me their poor kids didnt get into bed until 10pm on a school night, well, its bonfire night and it just so happened to fall on a school night, you make your choice.
As for being cold, again I remind people its the 5th November, wrap up warm, were Rat Race expected to supply everyone with their own portable heater!

I was one of the runners, Ive never done anything like this before and have trained for it, I had a really good time, a good atmosphere, spectacular fireworks, some cracking live music and luckily, because all you moaning minnies left it meant I walked straight to the bar and got served no fuss! So thanks!

RenRoyale wrote:
Sad to see such a slating, yes there are certainly some learns for if they ever do it again, the organisation was a bit all over the place but it was the first time it was here and a bloody good effort was made to FINALLY have something in the town (or close to) rather than having to trek out to the maze.
It was family friendly, and before anyone tells me their poor kids didnt get into bed until 10pm on a school night, well, its bonfire night and it just so happened to fall on a school night, you make your choice.
As for being cold, again I remind people its the 5th November, wrap up warm, were Rat Race expected to supply everyone with their own portable heater!

I was one of the runners, Ive never done anything like this before and have trained for it, I had a really good time, a good atmosphere, spectacular fireworks, some cracking live music and luckily, because all you moaning minnies left it meant I walked straight to the bar and got served no fuss! So thanks!

Sugarpop wrote:
Shockingly poor journalism. Will the Press rewrite this? It clearly is a one sided view, most likely a press release from Ratrace of a poorly managed event that hasn't taken into account any of the problems encountered by the majority of customers who are feeling very ripped off today.

AngryandFrustrated wrote:
Here's a novel approach. CofYC take over the running of the event. Charge £5 per head, payable in advance. Hold it at the Knavesmire. Bonfire and fireworks 6.30pm. No gimmicks, no stalls or stands. Run the traffic the same way that they do for the big race meetings. They could even put on a special Park and Ride service from Askham Bar. It really could be that simple, and indeed it is for the numerous local villages, market towns and pubs that do their own display. Deep sigh!

yorkborn66 wrote:
Knowing that events in York don’t normally go to plan, I did not bother with a ticket and sat in my van with wife and kids with the heater on, waiting for the fireworks to start. Others and I were doing the same thing commented on the big delay and the amount of young kids out so late on a cold evening with school in the morning. Ok we did not moan as we did not pay for tickets, but to be totally honest did you think everything would go to plan? All we could see from our high vantage point was a pathetic bonfire that burnt out within 15 minutes and after the runners had finished, the knavesmire was left in complete darkness with people waiting for the fireworks. I wonder if the police could confirm the story of people been in the wrong area which caused the delay? . . If I had paid for tickets I would have felt ripped off. The best display I have ever been to, Selby. Free with donations to charity, no problems with food etc. Money going too good causes and a fantastic firework display.

voodoocol wrote:
An utter fiasco. A field full of mud & people queuing in every direction, in the dark. Couldn't find the Tunnel of Goats anywhere. Terrible reporting yet again.

yorkandproud wrote:
It was obvious that this event was going to be another washout, to add to the Santa Claus fiddle last christmas , the big wheel fiasco, the unfunny Vic Reeves museum light show debacle. city of York council want stuffing for allowing these rip offs time after time.

To be fair though, people of York, the mention of the name Trevor Rooney should have made it a big no no.

Scarlet Pimpernel wrote:
Coun Sonja Crisp made out on twitter last night that it was 'fantastic', and said 'it was fab' ? !!!!

More spin from the acerbic 'Red Sonja' ?

Hope 'Mallory' is reading this thread, and will she dare to contradict those who disagree with her account of the event's success ?

#EpicLaboutFail !!!!

garyleedodson wrote:
i was there and did enjoy the fireworks. However the 45min delay was not welcomed at all (The firework spectacular which was due to start at 8pm was delayed for 45 minutes due to several people running on to a restricticted area. The police had to be called to remove them before the main event could begin.) I do believe this could happen because of the poor organisation skills from Ratrace, shown by the lack of facilities. Also the sham of trying to get out un helped by the police or security staff. Utterly disappionted #gunpowderplod

The event was expected to bring £500,000 into the York economy and involved 100 Yorkshire businesses of many different kinds

laura21 wrote:
who wants half price entry to another event, i want my money back!!!!!!!

Buzz Light-year wrote:
The Press never lets us down.
This is them at their very best - regurgitating spin and PR for companies and corporations.
The article is fiction complete with quote from Marketing Manager.

Someone somewhere at The Press must feel some shame, a hint of guilt at forcing their writers or at being forced to lie through gritted teeth like this?
If it was me I'd be in the shower for an hour tonight "Still not clean still not clean..."



Come on Press, the whole of York knows what really happened, we were there. Have some self-respect because no-one else is going respect you with fluff like this.
Aren't you embarrassed even just a little bit?

WayneCarr wrote:

RenRoyale wrote: Sad to see such a slating, yes there are certainly some learns for if they ever do it again, the organisation was a bit all over the place but it was the first time it was here and a bloody good effort was made to FINALLY have something in the town (or close to) rather than having to trek out to the maze. It was family friendly, and before anyone tells me their poor kids didnt get into bed until 10pm on a school night, well, its bonfire night and it just so happened to fall on a school night, you make your choice. As for being cold, again I remind people its the 5th November, wrap up warm, were Rat Race expected to supply everyone with their own portable heater! I was one of the runners, Ive never done anything like this before and have trained for it, I had a really good time, a good atmosphere, spectacular fireworks, some cracking live music and luckily, because all you moaning minnies left it meant I walked straight to the bar and got served no fuss! So thanks!

Clearly a minority view. Glad you had a good time. Any chance you have ties with Rat Race Adventures in some way?

RenRoyale wrote:

WayneCarr wrote:

RenRoyale wrote: Sad to see such a slating, yes there are certainly some learns for if they ever do it again, the organisation was a bit all over the place but it was the first time it was here and a bloody good effort was made to FINALLY have something in the town (or close to) rather than having to trek out to the maze. It was family friendly, and before anyone tells me their poor kids didnt get into bed until 10pm on a school night, well, its bonfire night and it just so happened to fall on a school night, you make your choice. As for being cold, again I remind people its the 5th November, wrap up warm, were Rat Race expected to supply everyone with their own portable heater! I was one of the runners, Ive never done anything like this before and have trained for it, I had a really good time, a good atmosphere, spectacular fireworks, some cracking live music and luckily, because all you moaning minnies left it meant I walked straight to the bar and got served no fuss! So thanks!

Clearly a minority view. Glad you had a good time. Any chance you have ties with Rat Race Adventures in some way?

No ties, only started running just over 6 weeks ago- just enjoyed it :) And no I dont have kids, but I was there with my friends and their children, we all had a great time!

lou-loubell wrote:
I attended this event last night as one of the runners for the Gunpowder Plod. This is the first run I have ever done, and so didn't think £20 was too bad. Yes ok, the registration for the race was slow and probably could have been avoided the race was delayed, but considering there were in excess of 1500 people running this is to be expected. The race went well, the fire effects round the track were good (although not the fire dancer & eaters I was expecting!) The queue for the drinks, medals and chocolate after the race was long, but moved very fast. Once the run was over, it was a short wait until the fireworks started, and Minster FM on the stage kept updating everyone on the delay. The fireworks were SPECTACULAR followed by a great set from Reverend and the Makers. I do not think there was an expectation for such an amazing amount of people at this event. There needed to be more food stalls and drinks stalls as the queues were massive, but the activities going on were good, and I have already recieved an apology from Rat Race via email, so they are very aware of the problems we all faced. Moaning about the cold, and the dark toilets is stupid...its bonfire night! I thoroughly enjoyed my night (even the running!)

elliehick wrote:

laura21 wrote: who wants half price entry to another event, i want my money back!!!!!!!

Too right!!

RenRoyale wrote:

WayneCarr wrote:

RenRoyale wrote: Sad to see such a slating, yes there are certainly some learns for if they ever do it again, the organisation was a bit all over the place but it was the first time it was here and a bloody good effort was made to FINALLY have something in the town (or close to) rather than having to trek out to the maze. It was family friendly, and before anyone tells me their poor kids didnt get into bed until 10pm on a school night, well, its bonfire night and it just so happened to fall on a school night, you make your choice. As for being cold, again I remind people its the 5th November, wrap up warm, were Rat Race expected to supply everyone with their own portable heater! I was one of the runners, Ive never done anything like this before and have trained for it, I had a really good time, a good atmosphere, spectacular fireworks, some cracking live music and luckily, because all you moaning minnies left it meant I walked straight to the bar and got served no fuss! So thanks!

Clearly a minority view. Glad you had a good time. Any chance you have ties with Rat Race Adventures in some way?

No ties, only started running just over 6 weeks ago- just enjoyed it :)
And no I dont have kids, but I was there with my friends and their children, we all had a great time!

RenRoyale wrote:

WayneCarr wrote:

RenRoyale wrote: Sad to see such a slating, yes there are certainly some learns for if they ever do it again, the organisation was a bit all over the place but it was the first time it was here and a bloody good effort was made to FINALLY have something in the town (or close to) rather than having to trek out to the maze. It was family friendly, and before anyone tells me their poor kids didnt get into bed until 10pm on a school night, well, its bonfire night and it just so happened to fall on a school night, you make your choice. As for being cold, again I remind people its the 5th November, wrap up warm, were Rat Race expected to supply everyone with their own portable heater! I was one of the runners, Ive never done anything like this before and have trained for it, I had a really good time, a good atmosphere, spectacular fireworks, some cracking live music and luckily, because all you moaning minnies left it meant I walked straight to the bar and got served no fuss! So thanks!

Clearly a minority view. Glad you had a good time. Any chance you have ties with Rat Race Adventures in some way?

No ties, only started running just over 6 weeks ago- just enjoyed it :)
And no I dont have kids, but I was there with my friends and their children, we all had a great time!

Lucas_of_H wrote:
I had a great night. Good to see some big fireworks back in York. Bands were pretty good. Beer tent ones especially. Had some tasty coffee which i didn’t have to queue for. Well done Rat race. Good show. Next time try and keep it on time though. Surprised people didn’t blame the cold weather on the organisers.

Walton71 wrote:
Interesting you can not put any comments under that news article I wonder why?

Lotus Eater wrote:
http://www.yorkpress

.co.uk/news/10029536

.Organisers_apologis

e_over_Knavesmire_fi

reworks_event/

"Editor’s Note: Our print deadlines and the hour-long delay caused by people running on to Knavesmire meant that our earlier reports of this event did not cover the criticism that has since emerged. We have now spoken to the organisers who have apologised for the problems that occurred."

ceebeelee wrote:
York Press??? You disgust me!! In no sense of the word have you 'reported' what actually went on last night!!!

I'm sure the endless comments that will be made about last night might suggest to you that if you are going to report on an event actually go there!

lou-loubell wrote:
I attended this event last night as one of the runners for the Gunpowder Plod. This is the first run I have ever done, and so didn't think £20 was too bad.

Yes ok, the registration for the race was slow and probably could have been avoided the race was delayed, but considering there were in excess of 1500 people running this is to be expected. The race went well, the fire effects round the track were good (although not the fire dancer & eaters I was expecting!)
The queue for the drinks, medals and chocolate after the race was long, but moved very fast. Once the run was over, it was a short wait until the fireworks started, and Minster FM on the stage kept updating everyone on the delay.
The fireworks were SPECTACULAR followed by a great set from Reverend and the Makers.

I do not think there was an expectation for such an amazing amount of people at this event. There needed to be more food stalls and drinks stalls as the queues were massive, but the activities going on were good, and I have already recieved an apology from Rat Race via email, so they are very aware of the problems we all faced. Moaning about the cold, and the dark toilets is stupid...its bonfire night!
I thoroughly enjoyed my night (even the running!)

huntersway wrote:
The Knavesmire is a public area, free for people to move about and use. Fine if they want to organise events at the racecourse, but having security trying to move you off the knavesmire 'because you haven't paid' is not legal. If it had been free and with a charity collection, thousands of people would have come and accepted any restrictions without complaint. A group of us watched it from the far end, were moved three times without good reason after having cheered on the runners. These events must either be open to all, or restricted to the stands of the racecourse if there is a charge. The fireworks were pretty good,would have happily donated a few quid to charity for that.

Woody G Mellor wrote:
After reading most of the above comments it sounds like it was great! Just gutted that I missed it.

Rosie11 wrote:
It isn't surprising that there hasn't been a fireworks event in York for Years when peoples reaction to issues with a first time event are so disproportionate to teething problems on the night. People have every right to be upset about the timing of the fireworks but the level of vitriol displayed by the Press audience would surely cause any future organisations wishing to bring a large scale event and a significant level of investment to York's economy to think twice. The organisers have apologised to the families who left before the fireworks began and the gesture of dontating £5000 to a childrens charity shows they sorry and are serious about making amends. The event has all of the right ingredients to be spectacular... I hope the organisers do not let the backlash on here affect them in learning from this years mistakes and returning again next year. Also people seem to be judging this event on the Fireworks they didn't see,I'm sure those who did see them will agree they were spectacular, however the entry price offered much more than that.....where else could you see an eclectic mix of musicians and such a fantastic set from Reverend and the Makers for just £12?

Rosie11 wrote:
It isn't surprising that there hasn't been a fireworks event in York for Years when peoples reaction to issues with a first time event are so disproportionate to teething problems on the night. People have every right to be upset about the timing of the fireworks but the level of vitriol displayed by the Press audience would surely cause any future organisations wishing to bring a large scale event and a significant level of investment to York's economy to think twice. The organisers have apologised to the families who left before the fireworks began and the gesture of dontating £5000 to a childrens charity shows they sorry and are serious about making amends. The event has all of the right ingredients to be spectacular... I hope the organisers do not let the backlash on here affect them in learning from this years mistakes and returning again next year. Also people seem to be judging this event on the Fireworks they didn't see,I'm sure those who did see them will agree they were spectacular, however the entry price offered much more than that.....where else could you see an eclectic mix of musicians and such a fantastic set from Reverend and the Makers for just £12?

Mitny wrote:
I really can not believe what I have read in many of the comments above. I attended last night - and attended the Kaboom event on Sunday. Kaboom ran over one and a half hours late, some of the bands did not appear, the music was too loud for comfort and the fairground was a rip off. Yes, they may have had fewer people waiting for food - but there were a lot less there. It was muddy, damp, cold and the area stank. Last night we went to the Knavesmire and really enjoyed our evening. The bonfire was lit at the time advertised - the race was slightly delayed and the fireworks were delayed by about half an hour. There was loads for the kids to do - ALL FREE - the storytelling tent etc was great, as was the treasurehunt. There were six adults and five children in our party and we had a really good night. Yes, there was mud - but where in York isn't there at the present time. For us Rat Race did a fantastic job and I am sure have learnt lessons for what I hope will be a next time. As for our Sunday Night experience - no thank you - never again. Rat Race may I apologise for certain people in the City of York who just like to sit at home making catty comments all day on their computers - they would possibly be better off getting employment to keep them occupied. At least Rat Race did something in the City on 5th November an extremely important date in York's History.

Mark Brayshaw wrote:

Mitny wrote:
I really can not believe what I have read in many of the comments above. I attended last night - and attended the Kaboom event on Sunday. Kaboom ran over one and a half hours late, some of the bands did not appear, the music was too loud for comfort and the fairground was a rip off. Yes, they may have had fewer people waiting for food - but there were a lot less there. It was muddy, damp, cold and the area stank. Last night we went to the Knavesmire and really enjoyed our evening. The bonfire was lit at the time advertised - the race was slightly delayed and the fireworks were delayed by about half an hour. There was loads for the kids to do - ALL FREE - the storytelling tent etc was great, as was the treasurehunt. There were six adults and five children in our party and we had a really good night. Yes, there was mud - but where in York isn't there at the present time. For us Rat Race did a fantastic job and I am sure have learnt lessons for what I hope will be a next time. As for our Sunday Night experience - no thank you - never again. Rat Race may I apologise for certain people in the City of York who just like to sit at home making catty comments all day on their computers - they would possibly be better off getting employment to keep them occupied. At least Rat Race did something in the City on 5th November an extremely important date in York's History.

The Kaboom fireworks were scheduled for 7.30pm but because of fog they were delayed until 7.45pm.

Marcus Collins was due on stage at 8pm and was on stage at 8.10pm.

How does this constitute running an hour and a half late?

One of the bands did not appear because the singer was in hospital with an abcess on his tonsils - how inconsiderate of him to do this within 24 hours of the event.

Was our mud different to the Knavesmire mud?

The only stink would appear to be your lies.

Mitny wrote:
I really can not believe what I have read in many of the comments above. I attended last night - and attended the Kaboom event on Sunday. Kaboom ran over one and a half hours late, some of the bands did not appear, the music was too loud for comfort and the fairground was a rip off. Yes, they may have had fewer people waiting for food - but there were a lot less there. It was muddy, damp, cold and the area stank. Last night we went to the Knavesmire and really enjoyed our evening. The bonfire was lit at the time advertised - the race was slightly delayed and the fireworks were delayed by about half an hour. There was loads for the kids to do - ALL FREE - the storytelling tent etc was great, as was the treasurehunt. There were six adults and five children in our party and we had a really good night. Yes, there was mud - but where in York isn't there at the present time. For us Rat Race did a fantastic job and I am sure have learnt lessons for what I hope will be a next time. As for our Sunday Night experience - no thank you - never again. Rat Race may I apologise for certain people in the City of York who just like to sit at home making catty comments all day on their computers - they would possibly be better off getting employment to keep them occupied. At least Rat Race did something in the City on 5th November an extremely important date in York's History.

Damien C wrote:

Mitny wrote:
I really can not believe what I have read in many of the comments above. I attended last night - and attended the Kaboom event on Sunday. Kaboom ran over one and a half hours late, some of the bands did not appear, the music was too loud for comfort and the fairground was a rip off. Yes, they may have had fewer people waiting for food - but there were a lot less there. It was muddy, damp, cold and the area stank. Last night we went to the Knavesmire and really enjoyed our evening. The bonfire was lit at the time advertised - the race was slightly delayed and the fireworks were delayed by about half an hour. There was loads for the kids to do - ALL FREE - the storytelling tent etc was great, as was the treasurehunt. There were six adults and five children in our party and we had a really good night. Yes, there was mud - but where in York isn't there at the present time. For us Rat Race did a fantastic job and I am sure have learnt lessons for what I hope will be a next time. As for our Sunday Night experience - no thank you - never again. Rat Race may I apologise for certain people in the City of York who just like to sit at home making catty comments all day on their computers - they would possibly be better off getting employment to keep them occupied. At least Rat Race did something in the City on 5th November an extremely important date in York's History.

I too was at the Kaboom event, and I know which one I'll be going to next year. Yes it was muddy and cold, but there was a note on the website advising people to expect Muddy conditions. It is winter you know! Fireworks slighltly delayed (by about 15 mins, where on earth do you arrive at your 90 minute figure?) due to fog (because coloured clouds don't look as good). I don't know where you were stood, but I couldn't smell anything and didn't hear anybody else complaining of a smell. Fireworks were spectacular, and expertly choreographed to James Bond soundtrack songs. No mile long queues for refreshments. Kids enjoyed the funfair. If the gunpowerder plod was your idea of a good night Mitny, you can keep it. I'll be back at Kaboom next year. Are you sure you aren't on somebody's payroll?

Mitny wrote:
I really can not believe what I have read in many of the comments above. I attended last night - and attended the Kaboom event on Sunday. Kaboom ran over one and a half hours late, some of the bands did not appear, the music was too loud for comfort and the fairground was a rip off. Yes, they may have had fewer people waiting for food - but there were a lot less there. It was muddy, damp, cold and the area stank. Last night we went to the Knavesmire and really enjoyed our evening. The bonfire was lit at the time advertised - the race was slightly delayed and the fireworks were delayed by about half an hour. There was loads for the kids to do - ALL FREE - the storytelling tent etc was great, as was the treasurehunt. There were six adults and five children in our party and we had a really good night. Yes, there was mud - but where in York isn't there at the present time. For us Rat Race did a fantastic job and I am sure have learnt lessons for what I hope will be a next time. As for our Sunday Night experience - no thank you - never again. Rat Race may I apologise for certain people in the City of York who just like to sit at home making catty comments all day on their computers - they would possibly be better off getting employment to keep them occupied. At least Rat Race did something in the City on 5th November an extremely important date in York's History.

yorkborn66 wrote:

Rosie11 wrote:
It isn't surprising that there hasn't been a fireworks event in York for Years when peoples reaction to issues with a first time event are so disproportionate to teething problems on the night. People have every right to be upset about the timing of the fireworks but the level of vitriol displayed by the Press audience would surely cause any future organisations wishing to bring a large scale event and a significant level of investment to York's economy to think twice. The organisers have apologised to the families who left before the fireworks began and the gesture of dontating £5000 to a childrens charity shows they sorry and are serious about making amends. The event has all of the right ingredients to be spectacular... I hope the organisers do not let the backlash on here affect them in learning from this years mistakes and returning again next year. Also people seem to be judging this event on the Fireworks they didn't see,I'm sure those who did see them will agree they were spectacular, however the entry price offered much more than that.....where else could you see an eclectic mix of musicians and such a fantastic set from Reverend and the Makers for just £12?

Donating £5000.00 to charity does not cut the ice, when families with little kids came to see a firework display and probably not bothered about the bands etc.
Families are genuinely angry that they have paid lots of money, to be totally disappointed. I watched the fiasco unfold from the crematorium bridge, well at least what I could see because everyone was in total darkness.
There have been some really good organized events in the past in York. One that comes to mind was at Clifford’s Tower, run by the Council and was excellent.
Selby, yet again gave a fantastic FREE display without any problems and by all accounts a far better firework display. Spectators donated money to charity.
By the genuine comments made we can conclude it was a money grabbing fiasco.
I wonder if Selby Council could give York Council some ideas for next year ?

yorkborn66 wrote:

Mitny wrote:
I really can not believe what I have read in many of the comments above. I attended last night - and attended the Kaboom event on Sunday. Kaboom ran over one and a half hours late, some of the bands did not appear, the music was too loud for comfort and the fairground was a rip off. Yes, they may have had fewer people waiting for food - but there were a lot less there. It was muddy, damp, cold and the area stank. Last night we went to the Knavesmire and really enjoyed our evening. The bonfire was lit at the time advertised - the race was slightly delayed and the fireworks were delayed by about half an hour. There was loads for the kids to do - ALL FREE - the storytelling tent etc was great, as was the treasurehunt. There were six adults and five children in our party and we had a really good night. Yes, there was mud - but where in York isn't there at the present time. For us Rat Race did a fantastic job and I am sure have learnt lessons for what I hope will be a next time. As for our Sunday Night experience - no thank you - never again. Rat Race may I apologise for certain people in the City of York who just like to sit at home making catty comments all day on their computers - they would possibly be better off getting employment to keep them occupied. At least Rat Race did something in the City on 5th November an extremely important date in York's History.

Don’t apologize on my behalf, because I have nothing to apologize for.
If the Police were called because of people allegedly in the drop zone, would this job have fallen to security had it been adequate. Comments have also been made regarding this so called drop zone and the distance required. The truth of the matter is possibly lack of organisation and risk assessment, not enough security employed for the evening to make sure people does not stray into unsafe areas.
And yes I have a job, and what difference would it have made if I were unfortunate to have lost my job? Would my comments be less important and valid? Stupid comment.
I leave you to apologise to the people you may have offended.

Mitny wrote:
PS - no - I do not work for Rat Race - they are not paying me.
I dont work for the firework organisation also.
But I do have a relation in the police force and know that they were called to the Knavesmire last night as people were in the danger zone.
Obviously Rat Race put public safety before time keeping.
ALSO - There were loads of toilets and my daughter in law commented that it was good to be able to get the kids there and not have to wait. No cars got stuck in the mud either - we parked on the roadside and my Son who came later parked on the Knavesmire and left with no trouble.

Mitny wrote:
I really can not believe what I have read in many of the comments above. I attended last night - and attended the Kaboom event on Sunday. Kaboom ran over one and a half hours late, some of the bands did not appear, the music was too loud for comfort and the fairground was a rip off. Yes, they may have had fewer people waiting for food - but there were a lot less there. It was muddy, damp, cold and the area stank. Last night we went to the Knavesmire and really enjoyed our evening. The bonfire was lit at the time advertised - the race was slightly delayed and the fireworks were delayed by about half an hour. There was loads for the kids to do - ALL FREE - the storytelling tent etc was great, as was the treasurehunt. There were six adults and five children in our party and we had a really good night. Yes, there was mud - but where in York isn't there at the present time. For us Rat Race did a fantastic job and I am sure have learnt lessons for what I hope will be a next time. As for our Sunday Night experience - no thank you - never again. Rat Race may I apologise for certain people in the City of York who just like to sit at home making catty comments all day on their computers - they would possibly be better off getting employment to keep them occupied. At least Rat Race did something in the City on 5th November an extremely important date in York's History.

WayneCarr wrote:

Damien C wrote:

Mitny wrote:
I really can not believe what I have read in many of the comments above. I attended last night - and attended the Kaboom event on Sunday. Kaboom ran over one and a half hours late, some of the bands did not appear, the music was too loud for comfort and the fairground was a rip off. Yes, they may have had fewer people waiting for food - but there were a lot less there. It was muddy, damp, cold and the area stank. Last night we went to the Knavesmire and really enjoyed our evening. The bonfire was lit at the time advertised - the race was slightly delayed and the fireworks were delayed by about half an hour. There was loads for the kids to do - ALL FREE - the storytelling tent etc was great, as was the treasurehunt. There were six adults and five children in our party and we had a really good night. Yes, there was mud - but where in York isn't there at the present time. For us Rat Race did a fantastic job and I am sure have learnt lessons for what I hope will be a next time. As for our Sunday Night experience - no thank you - never again. Rat Race may I apologise for certain people in the City of York who just like to sit at home making catty comments all day on their computers - they would possibly be better off getting employment to keep them occupied. At least Rat Race did something in the City on 5th November an extremely important date in York's History.

I too was at the Kaboom event, and I know which one I'll be going to next year. Yes it was muddy and cold, but there was a note on the website advising people to expect Muddy conditions. It is winter you know! Fireworks slighltly delayed (by about 15 mins, where on earth do you arrive at your 90 minute figure?) due to fog (because coloured clouds don't look as good). I don't know where you were stood, but I couldn't smell anything and didn't hear anybody else complaining of a smell. Fireworks were spectacular, and expertly choreographed to James Bond soundtrack songs. No mile long queues for refreshments. Kids enjoyed the funfair. If the gunpowerder plod was your idea of a good night Mitny, you can keep it. I'll be back at Kaboom next year. Are you sure you aren't on somebody's payroll?

I really cannot believe Mitny's comment. I think they have it the wrong way around. You really should buy a new watch as the delays were far bigger than you state at the Plod and a lot less for what you are quoting for Kaboom. Maybe the stink at Kaboom was coming out of your mouth as it seems to spout a lot of c**p. Please don't apologise on my behalf to Rat Race it should be the other way around. BTW the kids 'entertainment' was not free it was included in the extortionate price of the tickets (which weren't required anyway!). If you like rude, arrogant staff and enjoy standing in queue's for an hour at a time then Rat Race is for you. Enjoy.

Mitny wrote:
PS - no - I do not work for Rat Race - they are not paying me.
I dont work for the firework organisation also.
But I do have a relation in the police force and know that they were called to the Knavesmire last night as people were in the danger zone.
Obviously Rat Race put public safety before time keeping.
ALSO - There were loads of toilets and my daughter in law commented that it was good to be able to get the kids there and not have to wait. No cars got stuck in the mud either - we parked on the roadside and my Son who came later parked on the Knavesmire and left with no trouble.

yorkiemum wrote:

WayneCarr wrote:

Damien C wrote:

Mitny wrote: I really can not believe what I have read in many of the comments above. I attended last night - and attended the Kaboom event on Sunday. Kaboom ran over one and a half hours late, some of the bands did not appear, the music was too loud for comfort and the fairground was a rip off. Yes, they may have had fewer people waiting for food - but there were a lot less there. It was muddy, damp, cold and the area stank. Last night we went to the Knavesmire and really enjoyed our evening. The bonfire was lit at the time advertised - the race was slightly delayed and the fireworks were delayed by about half an hour. There was loads for the kids to do - ALL FREE - the storytelling tent etc was great, as was the treasurehunt. There were six adults and five children in our party and we had a really good night. Yes, there was mud - but where in York isn't there at the present time. For us Rat Race did a fantastic job and I am sure have learnt lessons for what I hope will be a next time. As for our Sunday Night experience - no thank you - never again. Rat Race may I apologise for certain people in the City of York who just like to sit at home making catty comments all day on their computers - they would possibly be better off getting employment to keep them occupied. At least Rat Race did something in the City on 5th November an extremely important date in York's History.

I too was at the Kaboom event, and I know which one I'll be going to next year. Yes it was muddy and cold, but there was a note on the website advising people to expect Muddy conditions. It is winter you know! Fireworks slighltly delayed (by about 15 mins, where on earth do you arrive at your 90 minute figure?) due to fog (because coloured clouds don't look as good). I don't know where you were stood, but I couldn't smell anything and didn't hear anybody else complaining of a smell. Fireworks were spectacular, and expertly choreographed to James Bond soundtrack songs. No mile long queues for refreshments. Kids enjoyed the funfair. If the gunpowerder plod was your idea of a good night Mitny, you can keep it. I'll be back at Kaboom next year. Are you sure you aren't on somebody's payroll?

I really cannot believe Mitny's comment. I think they have it the wrong way around. You really should buy a new watch as the delays were far bigger than you state at the Plod and a lot less for what you are quoting for Kaboom. Maybe the stink at Kaboom was coming out of your mouth as it seems to spout a lot of c**p. Please don't apologise on my behalf to Rat Race it should be the other way around. BTW the kids 'entertainment' was not free it was included in the extortionate price of the tickets (which weren't required anyway!). If you like rude, arrogant staff and enjoy standing in queue's for an hour at a time then Rat Race is for you. Enjoy.

I too was at the Kaboom display and I echo what Wayne has said. It was fantastic the fireworks were delayed because of fog only for 15 mins or so, the mud was expected as was the cold so we wrapped up well and put our wellies on!! all this for £7.50 each.