THE prospect of York's firework display created an atmosphere of anticipation and excitement, as we, and so many others, enjoyed the lighting effects and bell ringing outside York Minster.

We looked up into the sky awaiting the fireworks which, we were told, could be seen anywhere within the city walls. This feeling of elation soon turned to disappointment and frustration once the firework display began.

We were stuck in the middle of a large crowd and could not move to a better position to see the fireworks, even if there had been time to do so.

Our two young grandchildren were very upset at missing the fireworks, and we were glad that we had bought them a small box of fireworks to enjoy when they went home.

For those who were fortunate enough to choose a good spot, from the lottery of where to stand, I'm sure that they had a very good evening.

The rest of us returned home with a feeling of being cheated. The 400th anniversary of the gunpowder plot is something which we shall remember, but for all the wrong reasons.

Mrs Val Wood,

Huntington Road, York.

Updated: 10:30 Monday, November 14, 2005