A 40 foot flaming heart and 2,000 fireworks will go up in smoke tonight as Carlisle’s 23rd annual fireshow gets underway.

Preparations have been under way all week to ensure that the event in Bitts Park goes with a bang.

Pallets have been laid to create the bonfire and the centrepiece – a 40ft flaming heart – is ready to be burnt.

More than 35,000 people are expected to turn up to enjoy the fireworks display – which is expected to last for more than an hour.

The theme this year is Love Carlisle – chosen as the city bids to become UK City of Culture 2013.

The event is being hosted by ITV Tyne Tees and Border weather presenter Philippa Tomson and panto star Billy Walker, who is playing Captain Cockle in Dick Whittington and the Pirate Adventure at the Sands Centre.

Mike Mitchelson, leader of Carlisle City Council, said: “Carlisle fireshow is unequalled in the north and is a great example of a free community event ideal for all family to enjoy.

“To make the most of it, the advice is simple: dress warmly, arrive early, leave your fireworks and pets at home – and enjoy one of the greatest free shows you’re ever likely to see, anywhere in the country.

“In the past we had thousands of requests and have even been asked to read out some marriage proposals! As we have a Love Carlisle theme this year maybe there will be even more this time round.”

Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service is encouraging people to go along to organised events. County councillor Gary Strong said: “Public firework displays that are correctly organised are by far the safest way to enjoy bonfire night – and they don’t come much more spectacular than the Carlisle fireshow.”

Before the evening’s celebrations, a Love Carlisle day will be held in the city centre. A celebrity cookery theatre will be open between 10am and 4.30am in a marquee.

There will also be children’s activities, events and competitions from noon, and amazing street theatre organised from 1.30pm, culminating in a street theatre finale outside the Old Town Hall at 4.50pm.

Pre-fireworks entertainment in Bitts Park starts at 6.30pm and the bonfire will be lit at 7pm.

Messages and dedications can be texted to 07593 43 44 45 and will be read out at the bonfire. Admission is free, although collections will be made for the Mayor’s Charity Fund and Rotary Club Carlisle (South).

The event has been organised by Carlisle City Council in conjunction with the Black Powder Monkeys. Carlisle Leisure Limited, Carlisle Renaissance and Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service are also sponsors.

Support has been given from Alexander Sawmills, Brampton Pallets, Brown’s Haulage, BSW Timber, Carlisle Scaffolding, Cumbria Waste Pallets, Crown Bevcan, Edmundson’s Electricals, G J Campbell,