Big Night Out wows damp crowd

THOUSANDS of people turned out despite the rain to enjoy one of the county's most popular fireworks extravaganzas last night.

The inclement weather failed to dampen spirits as the Big Night Out in Long Melford, near Sudbury proved to be a hit with the crowds once again.

A dazzling display of colours lit up the night sky as �11,000 worth of fireworks left onlookers in Melford Hall Park spellbound.

Guys made by nursery and schoolchildren from the village as part of a competition were triggered to explode as the massive bonfire was lit.

Crowds, who donned wellies, hats and gloves for the East Anglian Daily Times sponsored event, also enjoyed a host of fairground rides and a variety of hot snacks.

The annual event run by a group of volunteers called Project Seven raises thousands of pounds for local charities.

Andrew Hagger, the event organiser, said despite rising costs this year all the hard work to ensure the event was as big as ever had paid off.

“I am pleased. Because of the crackdown on alcohol we were trying to turn it into a family event to enjoy.

“We took some of the bigger rides out and put more juvenile ones in.

“At the end of the day it is a fun, enjoyable and inexpensive family night out.”