Stand well back

The first show in "Thailand's Festival of International Fireworks in Honour of Their Majesties" will take place from 9pm by the lake at Muang Thong Thani, on Chaeng Wattana Road.

Four countries - Thailand, China, Japan and Germany - will attempt to outdo each other with dazzling dis¬plays as they battle for a place in the next round.

Other countries that have already confirmed their participation include Australia, Denmark, Italy, the United Arab Emirates and the United States. The series, jointly organised by the Defence Ministry and private spon¬sors, is being billed as Asia's biggestever pyrotechnics extravaganza.

Organising committee chairman LtGeneral ML Prasobchai Kasemsant says the public can expect a spectacu¬lar opening show, especially as it is being held to celebrate the 82nd birthday of His Majesty the King. "It will rival anything that has taken place either here or abroad," said Prasobchai.

After the turn of Thailand, China, Japan and Germany, the remaining countries will host their firework shows in August and December next year.

The organising committee will then choose the best teams, who will compete in an explosive finale for a Royal sponsored trophy presented by HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn.

Further! Fireworkdisplay teams from around the world head to Bangkok for Asia's biggestever pyrotechnics event