Thankfully, following predictions to the contrary, the weather was quite reasonable during the early part of the evening on Guy Fawkes night and crowds turned up as usual to enjoy a splendid evening of firework entertainment in safety, provided by the Ross Lions and their supporters.

The price of admittance to the display was the same as in previous years and, according to the takings, the number of people attending also remained at a similar level. A grand sum of £4,400 being raised for the local Lions club.

The Lions apologize for the slow start to the provision of refreshments. They were not prepared for an early rush for the purchase of hot-dogs and burgers. Queues began forming an hour before the lighting of the bonfire, before the food had been cooked. The Lions say that this will not occur next year.

The event began with a torchlight parade by Ross-on-Wye Cubs, followed by the lighting of the bonfire. The bonfire was back to its usual size, after having being much smaller last year and it burned spectacularly.

The refreshment stalls did a roaring trade, working hard to keep up with demand.

Thankfully the St. John Ambulance staff were not required, other than to look after one little boy who was feeling unwell.