A SPECTACULAR fireworks display had Bolton entranced as hundreds of people lined Leverhulme Park tonight.

The annual display, which now in its 26th year, saw residents turn out in force to enjoy all the fun of the fair, including fairground rides, food stalls and live music.

The climax of the evening was a near 20-minute firework display, with plenty of “oohs” and “aahs” to be heard from the crowd.

The rockets were fired into the air with a musical accompaniment, with the fireworks shooting off into the sky in time with the beat.

The event was officially opened by Cllr Colin Shaw, Deputy Mayor of Bolton, who said he thought the night was the best yet.

It also featured live music from 14-year-old singing sensation Chloe-Rose Cowan, as well as hip-hop trio Myth of Unity.

DJ’s from Tower FM were on hand to build up the crowd for the big event and launch the countdown to the fireworks.

Paul Cook and Robin Day from Farnworth said they were taking advantage of the unusually warm autumn temperatures.

Paul said: “It is usually really muddy on the park at this time of year, so we have been really lucky.

“We come every year, it is a good chance to see some great fireworks, and the weather is a real bonus.”

The Met Office confirmed that this year’s Hallowe’en is the warmest on record, with some areas of the country reaching nearly 24 degrees celsius.

Another reveller taking advantage of the barmy weather was Craig Merga, who was with his two sons Oliver, aged six, and Archie, aged two.

Craig, from Astley Bridge, said: “We have come down for the little ones, they really like the fireworks and the big bangs.

“It is the first time I have come down to the park to see the fireworks, but it is great, and not getting cold is another advantage.”

Others enjoying the festival were John Halstead and Katie Mullaney, also from Astley Bridge.

Katie said: “It is great that the event is free, it lets everyone come and get in the spirit and have a good time.”

The event is the first in Bolton Council's winter wonderland programme, which launches later this month, and includes the return of the giant wheel and ice rink in Victoria Square, and new for this year, a 50 metre snow slide.

Residents planning their own fireworks party for Hallowe'en or Bonfire Night, which falls on Wednesday, can visit a dedicated website which offers advice and tips on how to enjoy fireworks safely.

For more information go to safe4autumn.com