AS the rain lashed down on Saturday morning the organisers of Chawton Cricket Club’s annual fireworks and bonfire spectacle thought it was going to be a repeat of last year when the celebrations had to be called off because of bad weather.

But by evening it was dry and fine and one of the club’s most successful bonfire nights went ahead.

With crowds filling the stands and grounds to see what was described a “spectacular” display while the bonfire, built well away from the pitch, clubhouse and near-by thatched houses, lit up the night sky.

The cricket club served mulled wine and soft drinks and Rotherfield Scouts served up a tasty barbecue.

A club spokesman said: “It really was one of our best displays. It was spectacular ending with ’Good Night’ displayed in fireworks. Everyone had a really good time.

“We thought at first it would be like last year when we had to cancel bonfire night because of torrential rain and although we held it the next evening we didn’t have a licence to provide mulled wine and had to bring in food for the visitors.

“So we are very glad this year’s was such a success and the entrance fee money will go to help people in the village and other money raised go to club funds.”