A huge community firework event saw ‘one of its best years’ to date.

Last night saw the return of Bonfire by the Beach in West Bay, and crowds watched on in awe as a ‘fantastic’ firework display illuminated the night sky.

The annual event is organised by Bridport Round Table and West Bay Days - a group of volunteers who run other popular events throughout the year such as Pirates Day and the Christmas Tree light-up on Harbour Green.

James Radcliffe, chairman of West Bay Days, said: “There was a very good turn out, it was one of the best years.

“The bonfire was really big, and the fireworks were fantastic, they really did us proud and we have been getting lots of good feedback from people that showed up.”

There was also a funfair for people to enjoy, live music from bands like Howling at the Moon and What the Phunk, as well as bft6 plenty of different catering units for those who fancied a bite to eat.

The community event also raises funds for local groups and the money will be presented to them at the West Bay Days Christmas Tree event on Sunday, December 8.

People enjoying the music at Bonfire by the beach at West Bay.People enjoying the music at Bonfire by the beach at West Bay. (Image: Graham Hunt Photography)

Although the exact figure has not yet been calculated, Mr Radcliffe is hoping Bonfire by the Beach raised ‘a few thousand,’ and at the end of the year, the group are hoping to give local groups a share of £20,000.

Donations are encouraged to raise funds for local groups and causes including Bridport Youth Rugby Club, Bridport Youth Football Club, ASCape autism charity, Bridport Men's Wellness and many more. 

(Image: Graham Hunt Photography)
The chairman added: “It’s great to be able to help them. It’s what this is all about, helping those groups do what they do best as well as putting something on for the community to enjoy.”

He also shared his thanks to ‘everybody that came down to the event’ and ‘everybody that contributed.’

There are plans for the popular event to return next year and you can stay up to date via the West Bay Days Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/westbaydays.