Mqabba Lily Fireworks emerged as the winner of the second National Mechanical Ground Fireworks Festival at the Granaries on Saturday, April 5. The festival was organised by the Floriana local council and saw the participation of 16 fireworks complexes and groups.

Apart from winning the overall award, Lily Fireworks also placed first in two other categories - originality, and the category for the least possible gears in the mechanical system. The award for the best pyrotechnics according to public opinion was also won by the Lily Fireworks, which earned 875 votes.

The jury consisted of two pyrotechnics experts from the UK and Germany, as well as a British mechanical engineer. The jury was chaired by Joe Theuma, secretary of the Maltese Pyrotechnic Group.

The jury made its evaluation during the setting up of the mechanical systems and during the display itself. Footage was also used. The results of the festival were announced during a ceremony held at the Floriana council, during which vice-mayor Franco Davies presented the awards to the winners.

Great celebrations broke out in Mqabba's main square on Sunday in the early afternoon, immediately after the result was known. A carcade accompanied the trophies on their way to the club, where a celebration party was held lasting till late.

The Our Lady of Lilies Musical Society would like to thank all those who worked hard in order to make such a success possible. A great thank you also goes to the public which has once again given Lily Fireworks a landslide victory through its vote.

A celebratory activity in recognition of all members of Lily Fireworks will be held at the club on Mqabba's main square on Saturday, April 19, from 8 p.m.

Celebrations will carry on throughout the feast in honour of Our Lady of Lilies, celebrated in Mqabba between June 8 and 15.