KILWINNING’S annual fireworks display went off with a bang this week - drawing its biggest ever crowd.

Thousands of families descended on McGavin Park to watch the sky light up for the November 5th Bonfire Night celebrations.

Organisers say more than 14,000 people filled the park on Sunday night with a further 2,000 people lining the streets, and hundreds more watching from houses and gardens in the surrounding area.

The event kicked off at 4.30pm when revellers arrived to enjoy the fairground rides and entertainment on stage from local musical artists as well as free balloon art and fire acts.

Despite a delay, the fireworks proved to be the biggest hit of the night.

Organiser and Kilwinning Councillor Donald Ried told the Times: “We have had a fantastic response to this year’s event and definitely had more people in attendance than ever before, which is very encouraging.

“We worked very hard on making this event a great night for everyone in the community so we are absolutely delighted that it was such a success.”

Kilwinning Community Events wish to extend thanks to the public and partners, North Ayrshire Council, Whitehirst and Woodside Community Association, Kilwinning Rotary, Pennyburn TARA, Pennyburn Community Association, Ancho Housing, Blacklands Community Association, Irvine Housing Association, Thornie Tree Temperance LOL 103 and from the National Lottery with funding.

Also Glenmavis Traffic Management, Kilwinning Scouts, Network Rail, Irvine Carters, NAC Unpaid Work, Kilwinning Youth Forum, Coop Food, B&M Stevenston, 1st Alliance CU, Pryde, Local Schools, Ayrshire College, St Winnin’s Church, Kilwinning Girl Guides, R and L Miller and Adrian Anderson.