Pyrotechnic vicar Rev Ron Lancaster dies aged 95
Kimbolton FireworksA vicar and retired chemistry teacher who was behind some of the nation's most incredible fireworks displays has died at the age of 95.
The Reverend Ron Lancaster MBE founded Kimbolton Fireworks in 1964, creating displays for the 2012 London Olympics and the capital's New Year's Eve celebrations.
Known as the "Master Blaster Pastor", Lancaster was honoured for "services to pyrotechnics" with a plaque in 2013 by the Royal Society of Chemistry.
Phoenix Fireworks, which took on the firm, said in a statement: "A true pioneer of the British fireworks industry, his passion, dedication and vision helped establish Kimbolton Fireworks as one of the most recognised and respected names in pyrotechnics."
It added: "It is a privilege to continue that journey and ensure the Kimbolton name remains a respected part of the British fireworks industry for generations to come."
Getty ImagesLancaster previously told the BBC his fascination for fireworks and chemistry developed from his early years in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire.
He said he experimented with pyrotechnic devices and helped organise displays for the local community during World War Two, at a time when fireworks were not readily available.
"What began as a passion grew into a name synonymous with quality, craftsmanship and spectacular firework displays, his contribution to the industry has left a lasting impression, inspiring generations of pyrotechnicians and firework enthusiasts alike," Phoenix Fireworks said.
Lancaster moved to Cambridgeshire in the 1960s to take the post of chaplain and chemistry teacher at Kimbolton School, where he retired in 1988.
In 1963, he began building fireworks in a small workshop, which later became Kimbolton Fireworks.
The pyrotechnics company has also been responsible for firework displays marking the Queen's Silver Jubilee and the Hong Kong handover of sovereignty in 1997.
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