RAIN didn’t manage to stop play last Saturday for Ledbury’s Fireworks Bonanza, which managed to attract hundreds of people to the Hazle Meadow site, despite considerable downpours.

But the overall “gate” was down, from a all-time record of around 5000 people, a few years back, to around 1500 this year, although the final tally for ticket sales is still to be confirmed.

Organiser James Pugh said of the evening: “It was very wet! But it seems that whoever turned up enjoyed themselves.

“However, the gate was down. “

The event, as is by now traditional, featured a huge bonfire and two large fireworks displays.

But Mr Pugh said that he and his father, Howard, were already looking at the format for next years.

He said: “We will change a few things for next year.”

But he added: “ The changes will be kept as a surprise.”

Ledbury Rotary and other volunteers helped, as ever, with parking and other essential duties.

Mr Pugh said: “My father and I are very grateful for all the help from all volunteers.”

There was live music, including the popular local band, Frontrunner, hot food, a bar, and rides with Rogers’ fun fair.

There were discussions, during the countdown to the bonfire, to decide whether or not one of the largest events on Ledbury’s annual calendar should be postponed.

But by Wednesday last week the decision was to press on, and work started on building the massive bonfire out of pallets.

With organisers already looking to 2020, next year’s event will be the fifth in a row to take place at Hazle Meadows, off Ross Road.

As well as raising money for various good causes, Howard and James Pugh’s aim in organising the bonfire event has always been to create a memorable night out.