THE bonfire crackled, the fireworks whizzed and £3,000 was raised for local charities.

The annual Radcliffe Round Table extravaganza lit up the town on Saturday (Oct 6) night and was deemed a resounding success.

"It's the best one we have staged in recent years," said a delighted Paul Heathcote, Round Table president.

Around 2,000 people congregated in Close Park for the spectacular.

"Everyone was in a good mood because of the England win and there was a brilliant atmosphere," said Mr Heathcote.

Round Table members are pictured lighting the bonfire. They were assited by the Mayor of Bury, Coun Paul Nesbit.

Once it was ablaze it was time for the £2,000 firework display to begin, accompanied by music from a radio roadshow.

"The display had to be delayed by about an hour because of the wind, but people didn't seem to mind too much," said Mr Heathcote.

He added: "Along with the carnival, the bonfire is one of the few events still going that seems to unite the community and we'd like to thank the people of Radcliffe and local businesses for making it such a good night."

The £3,000 profit will be used to support charities, organisations and worthy causes in the local area.