THE skies above Swindon exploded in a hail of golden light on Saturday as bonfire night was marked with a whole host of jaw-dropping firework displays.

Exploding rockets and fizzing Catherine Wheels wowed the crowds and left little ones wide-eyed as families braved the freezing temperatures to attend the annual celebrations.

Two of the town’s main gatherings took place in Lydiard Park and at the Polo Ground, off Marlborough Road.

The Lydiard Park spectacular was organised by the Swindon and North Wiltshire Scouts, while the Polo Ground display came courtesy of the Swindon Lions Club.

The latter was billed as the largest organised display in Swindon and all profits from the event went towards supporting the work of the Lions.

John Austin, chairman of the Lions’ fireworks committee, said: “This is the 42nd year that Swindon Lions have hosted a firework night.

“This is our major fundraising event of the year – we are expecting around 5,000 people to come through the doors tonight.

“It is easily one of the best firework displays in Swindon and each year we try to make it that little bit better.

“All the proceeds go to charity, so it’s worth coming down and supporting a good cause.

“The weather is good tonight and we are hoping to raise something in the region of £15,000.”

There certainly was plenty to see and do. Various food and drink stalls gave revellers the chance to warm themselves up with a juicy burger and a nice hot cup of coffee.

Crowds were entertained with live music from Swindon rock band Josie and the Outlaw.

And at 7.15pm the fuses were lit and the town’s biggest firework display exploded into life.

People lined up along Marlborough Road to catch a glimpse of the dazzling pyrotechnics and children were hoisted onto parents' shoulders for a better view.

Committed Lions supporters John Martin and wife Cynthia, from North Swindon, were very impressed.

“It’s great to be able to come to something like this and know you are contributing to a good cause,” said John. “The Lions do brilliant work.

“The display is marvellous. They have put on a really good show.”

The Harris family, from Oxfordshire, who had spent the weekend visiting friends in Stratton, had been looking forward to seeing the fireworks all day.

Dad Richard, 38, said: “It’s the first time our six-year-old daughter has been to a big public display like this. She’s really loved it so far.

“It’s a good family event, but you have to wrap up warm.”

Six-year-old Daisy said: “I’ve enjoyed it so far. My favourite one was the one that sounded like a rocket taking off.”

Mini firework displays could be heard all over the town, and went on well into the night.

“I’m off home now,” said one man just half an hour after the fireworks started. “The display was brilliant, but I’m freezing.”