SATURDAY night went off with a bang for thousands of revellers enjoying firework displays across the region.

SATURDAY night went off with a bang for thousands of revellers enjoying firework displays across the region.

There was a Thrilling twist in Ipswich's Christchurch Park, with a display costing �28,000.

The explosions that filled the November sky were accompanied by the timeless music of the late, great King of Pop Michael Jackson.

Hits including Beat It, Earth Song and Thriller accompanied the stunning display while tribute artist James Aston brought the multi-million selling singer back to life with an hour-long set of hits.

The evening also featured a performance from the Streetwise Inc dance group, based in Felixstowe.

The youngsters' routine saw them dance along to some of Jackson's best-loved songs, warming the crowd up for the main event.

A small fun fair and a raft of refreshment stands offered traditional Bonfire Night fare as people of all ages braved the chilly autumnal weather.

Thankfully the downpour that had soaked the park over the previous 24hours was not repeated and the event, organised by the 11th Ipswich Scout Group, ran smoothly during the 20 minute display.

Dave Baldry, a scout leader and member of the organising committee, said the event had proved a big success, as had the clean-up operation for yesterday's remembrance service, also held in the park.

He said: “It seemed like a very good crowd but it's difficult to know how many people came; something like 18,000 I think.

“The weather was excellent and dry and perfect for fireworks. Everything has gone very, very well this year.”

The display was the 38th organised by the scouts in the town and the proceeds will help cover week-to-week running costs and pay for girls and boys to attend camps around the world.

The weather was also kind for the fireworks display at the Foxhall Stadium which followed a thrilling evening of stock car racing.