Volcano Night 2025

Annual charity bonfire competition on Alnmouth beach. Teams of up to 10 adults and children bring shovels, wood, paper, eco-firelighters and matches. They are allocated a spot on the beach. When the whistle blows they have 10-15 minutes to build a large sandcastle. The next 10-15 minutes are to build and light a bonfire on top of the sandcastle. Everyone then retires, usually with a picnic. Boats & the RNLI may sail past, depending on the weather. The last fire to be put out by the incoming tide is the winner of a prize (conditions may apply).

Team Hints & Tips

• Prepare for weather & paddling (warm, waterproof clothes, suitable footwear, towels, suncream).

• Bring a picnic and drinks. Pubs, restaurants and cafes are in the village. Village Store and Scotts Deli-Cafe are open for general supplies, picnics, firewood, kids’ buckets and spades, etc.

• Parking is in the adjacent Beach car park. Public toilets are just across the golf course.

The Rules

1. The sea and lighting a bonfire both involve risk. By taking part in the event you agree that:

◦ you are aware of the risk and accept responsibility for exposing your team to it

◦ you are responsible for the safety and behaviour of your team.

◦ you will comply with the instructions of the organisers at all times.

◦ you accept responsibility for any injury, damage or loss caused by your negligence.

◦ you will not participate whilst impaired by alcohol, drugs or otherwise unfit.

2. Teams of up to 10 adults. 2 children under 16 = 1 adult.

3. At the gazebo, show booking confirmation. Get a peg number to find your pitch.

4. At your pitch remove the peg and return it to a Marshal. You will build to seaward of the peg.

5. When the signal blows, you have 10-15 minutes to build a sandcastle made ONLY of sand. NO STONES, WOOD OR ANY TYPE OF SUPPORT INSIDE YOUR CASTLE.

6. When the second signal blows, building MUST STOP. Teams then set and light their ‘Volcano’ fire on the top of their sandcastle. Use only PAPER, WOOD (no nails) and ECO FIRELIGHTERS. NO FIREWORKS OR OTHER FUELS ALLOWED.

7. When the third signal blows, STOP all work on the volcano and retire to the beach side of the fires.

8. Do not sabotage other teams' castle or fires.

9. The last fire burning is the winner and gets the prize. The Judges' decision is final.

10. PLEASE put spare wood and burnt BBQ charcoal on the Club’s Disposal Bonfire. Take all your litter home and keep the beach tidy.