WET weather didn’t dampen the spirits of the thousands of people who flocked to annual Bonfire displays last week.

Hundreds of motorists were stuck on the field at Speech House Hotel, near Coleford, for at least 45 minutes after a minor collision on Parkend Road caused a backlog of traffic.

It is believed nearly 5,000 people visited the annual FERN Bonfire and Firework display, which was organised by the Forest and Severn Dean Lions Club.

Lions president, Alan Townley said: “Heavy rain all day almost threatened a last-minute cancellation but luckily it dried up and the show could go on. We didn’t expect such a vast turnout; it really did surpass everybody’s expectations.

“The field was full and we must apologise to all the people who ventured out and couldn’t reach us. We were well organised and had measures in place to help any vehicles stuck in mud.

“We do not have the exact figure of monies raised but we expect it to be at least £10,000 which will go towards supporting local good causes. On behalf of the Lions, we must thank Peter and Gill Hands for the use of the field as well as the volunteers and marshals, Lydney Air Training Corps and St John’s Ambulance, and the patience of those stuck on the field for almost an hour.”

There was less drama at The Red Hart Inn at Blaisdon and Bathurst Park in Lydney last Thursday.

Both received positive comments and saw a spectacular display of fireworks despite the drizzle.

Chairman of the Westbury Young Farmers, who organised the event, Rob King said: “We were all surprised with the number of people who attended. We estimate we made a profit of £1,000 – of which so much will be donated to Hearts of the Forest School, Gloucestershire Young Farmers, and Leanne’s Gift (set-up in memory of Longhope car crash victim Leanne Davies.)”

Jayne Smailes at Lydney Town Council added: “The firework display appeared to be very well-received with the Council having received a number of very positive comments and notes of thanks.  

“The total sum raised on the night was just over £4,882.97.”