RECORD crowds gathered around a bonfire in what was the ‘biggest and most successful’ event. 

The community flocked to West Bay for Bonfire by the Beach on Saturday, where they were wowed by a ‘truly spectacular’ firework display.

Event organisers West Bay Days says it was the biggest event it has run to date.

Appreciative crowds were offered a range of al fresco dining opportunities and a full evening of entertainment of live music.

This year saw a new band to West Bay, Out of Order, open the evening, followed by the very popular Mama Feelgood.

Organisers say they are delighted that Bonfire by the Beach has so quickly become established as a major community event for all the family.

Additional field parking was made impossible due to the previous week’s weather, when the county was battered by Storm Brian, but two anonymous donors came forward to sponsor a Bonfire Bus. 

West Bay Days is already looking at making this a regular feature of the event and the possibility of expanding the service.

A spokesman said: “The new Bonfire Bus provided an excellent free shuttle service between Bridport and West Bay and the group is very pleased with the large number of people who used the service.”

They added: “West Bay Days would especially like to thank Bridport Town Council for its continuing support, their many generous sponsors, the local fire brigade and an army of volunteers, without whom the event could not take place.”

West Bay Days is a group of volunteers dedicated to the future of West Bay. It organises and supports events member feels are for the benefit of the local community and visitors to the area.

The group’s next event is Christmas Tree on the Green, which will take place on Sunday, December 3, to which all are welcome to join. 

For more information, visit westbaydays@gmail.com