RAIN and plummeting temperatures could not prevent Blackburn's premier bonfire from being dubbed a 'roaring success'.

Thousands of families turned out at Witton Country Park for Saturday night's event, which culminated in a spectacular fireworks display.

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Lancashire police estimated that more than 10,000 revellers enjoyed the event, which also featured a funfair and live music.

Queues stretched down Preston Old Road as the party atmosphere got underway from 5pm, with a huge bonfire lit at 7.30pm.

Flames from the pile of wooden pallets rose high into the sky and kept the crowds warm as they watched a memorable 15-minute firework display.

The annual celebration, organised jointly by Blackburn Lions, Rotary Club of Blackburn and Blackburn Round Table, was sponsored by Witton Park Academy.

Norman Walker, from Blackburn Lions, said the money raised by ticket sales was on course to be a record amount.

He said: "It was an absolutely roaring success. The rain certainly didn't dampen anyone's spirits. The public of Blackburn amaze me every year with their willingness to join in.

"They support us and the charities very well. We haven't counted up the total yet but it is going to be in the region of £18,000 to £20,000 I would have thought. It's a record for sure.

"Although the council is responsible on the night, we do the gate with the bonfire built by the Round Table and the Rotarian looking after the car parks. We had around 70 volunteers there on the night and it all went off without any issues.

"We started planning this last January and you can imagine the health and safety concerns we have to navigate. It was well worth it."

The proceeds of the event will be split between three charities, namely the Blackburn branches of the Samaritans, the NSPCC and the Lifeline Project.