Hundreds of residents braved the torrential rain and wind to enjoy a bonfire and fireworks display at Accrington Cricket Club.

The annual event normally attracts around 4,000 people however organisers said 'atrocious conditions' on the night saw only around 800 people go along.

The start of the bonfire was delayed for around an hour as volunteers struggled to set it alight because of the deluge of rain.

The event was organised by the three local Rotary Clubs of Great Harwood and Rishton, Church and Oswaldtwistle and Accrington and saw 60 Rotarians help out on the night.

Michael Jackson, of the Church and Oswaldtwistle Club, said: “This is the first time in many years that the bad weather caused so many problems, both for the organisers and people attending the event.

“So much rain had fallen that difficulties were experienced in getting the bonfire started which meant an unfortunate delay of about an hour.

“Nevertheless about 800 or so brave souls bravely enjoyed the bonfire and the fireworks despite the atrocious conditions. Normally this event attracts 4,000 people which is a major fundraiser for charity.

“About 60 Rotarians from the three clubs were involved in preparing the bonfire, stewarding the event and serving food and then cleaning up the following morning. This is a grand example of Rotary clubs joining together on a major event.”

picture by Franco Sanna

Jacquie Baldwin, president of the lead club Accrington, paid tribute to all who helped on the night .

She said: “Although it was such a pity that the event was badly affected by the conditions praise indeed should go to those 800 people who supported the bonfire”.