SPECTACULAR firework displays lit up the skies above York and the surrounding area this weekend as a number of bonfire events were held.

There was an exciting laser show at a bonfire and firework display at Rawcliffe Country Park last night. Organised by North Yorkshire fire service, the event featured a large bonfire, fireworks, food stalls, bars, live music and a funfair, as well as a laser show, which was made possible by the support of York’s Ultra Fibre Optic from TalkTalk.

More than 6,000 people attended the extravaganza, which was in aid of the Fire Fighters Charity.

Last year’s event raised about £14,500 for the charity, and organisers hope to surpass that total this year.

York Press:

ABOVE: Fireworks at the KP Club in Pocklington Picture: Louise Jones (The Press Camera Club)

Bruce Reid MBE, watch manager at Harrogate Fire Station, said: “It was a great success. We wanted to make this year’s extravaganza even bigger and better and with the support of TalkTalk this year, I am very pleased to say we succeeded.”

He added: “A special thank you to all the people that made the event happen due to the weather conditions and condition of the land.”

Michelle McCarthy, TalkTalk marketing manager for York’s Ultra Fibre Optic, commented: “It was a pleasure to support such a brilliant community event on Saturday. Everybody was in great spirits and the event was fantastic. We were proud to sponsor the Bonfire Night especially as it was in aid of such a worthy cause.”

York Press:

ABLAZE: The bonfire at The Stone Trough at Kirkham Abbey on Friday night Picture: Andrew Molloy (The Press Camera Club)

Selby Town Council’s bonfire and firework event took place on the Community Centre field, off Scott Road, also last night. There was also a bonfire event in Dunnington on Saturday, with music by Rock T Night, and another due to take place in Pocklington tonight.

York Press:

DAZZLING: An unusual display Picture: Joy Stead (The Press Camera Club)