Thousands flock to enjoy Donnington bonfire party

Up to 15,000 people took advantage of a crisp and clear November evening to attend one of Shropshire's biggest bonfire parties.

The sky exploded into life above Donnington in Telford on Saturday for the annual Donnington Bonfire spectacular.

Dozens of whirling fun fair rides carpeted the Broadoaks Playing Field and the giant bonfire made up of thousands of wooden pallets, donated by local companies, burst into flames at about 7pm.

The fireworks followed shortly after wowing the thousands of people who had turned up.

Bonfire organisers Jenny and Alf Mitchell said it had been a lovely evening.

Mrs Mitchell said: "It's hard to put a precise number on the number of people attending the event because they are free to come and go as they wish. There are no gates around the park and the event is free to all who attend.

"But I would say about 15,000 people turned out. The weather turned out very well and was a lovely evening."

Roads around the bonfire suffered delays with Wellington Road closed except for access to car parks.

Co-organiser Jenny Mitchell said the firework display was delayed by around half an hour after an accident forced the closure of a road near the event and apologised for any inconvenience.