City centre fireworks branded 'total and utter rip off' as visitors say display lasted just 'FOUR minutes'

A firework display was branded a 'total and utter rip off' following complaints over queues and a 'four minute' pyrotechnics show. The display, hosted by Freight Island in Manchester, was billed as being a 'spectacular' event based at Mayfield Depot, in the city centre.

But some of those who attended the event on Saturday night (November 4) claimed it was a 'total and utter rip off' and a 'big disappointment', claiming the firework display lasted for just four minutes, with a lack of other entertainment.

Beth Jones, 38, had travelled into the city centre from Glossop and attended the event with friends. She had paid £12 for a ticket and said didn't believe the display represented value for money.

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She told of how she booked to attend at 5.30pm, which gave ticket holders access to the venue until 7pm - however said the display didn't begin until around 6.30pm.

Freight Island has since said they have 'taken on board' the feedback about the display not being long enough and that the fireworks will be extended in 2024. The venue added they will be offering ticket holders a 'complimentary experience' to thank them for supporting the first fireworks display event.

Mayfield Park was also decorated into a Fire Garden – featuring flame-lined paths, as well as copper flowers that breathe fire and scorching sculptural trees.

"There was no kind of performance or event, it was just you stood around for an hour just waiting," Beth claimed. "The display literally lasted four minutes.

"For what they were