PREDICTIONS of autumn downpours meant it was a smaller crowd than was hoped for this year’s Ledbury Charity Firework Bonanza, at Hazle Meadows, but thousands still turned up for bonfire fun.

As it turned out, the weather behaved itself for Saturday evening, with only a few spots of rain, and the 3000 or so people who did attend had a splendid time by a huge, roaring bonfire built from pallets.

There were two excellent firework displays also, which were well appreciated and added to the party atmosphere.

Popular local band, Frontrunner gave impressive and spirited performances, and there was a good take-up for the rides offered by Rogers’ fun fair.

The bonfire was lit on time, shortly after 6pm, as a lit rocket streaked along a wire into the pallets, and the first firework display lit up local skies and shook the ground shortly afterwards, from 6.30pm.

Now planning is already beginning for next year’s extravaganza, which is already one of the biggest attractions on the town’s annual calendar and a much-loved tradition.

Organiser James Pugh of H J Pugh & Co Auctioneers said: “The weather put a lot of people off which was a shame, but we are already talking about next year’s event.

“I would like to thank everyone who helped at the event. and without their help the show would not go on.”

The amount raised for various good causes will be announced shortly.