SPECTACULAR fireworks displays will light up the skies across Halstead.

Two displays will take place in the town and in Blackmore End, with audiences set for an explosive weekend of fun.

Fireworks displays will be held across the country to mark the survival of King James I following the foiled Gunpowder plot of 1605, where Guy Fawkes attempted to blow up the House of Lords.

November 5 falls on a Monday this year, with the majority of displays taking place on Saturday, November 3.

Blackmore End, near Gosfield, will host a traditional bonfire and fireworks display on the Saturday.

The event kicks off at 6pm at Blackmore End Playing Field, in School Road, with the bonfire being lit at 7pm.

Fireworks will the start from 7.45pm.

There will also be a bar, barbecue, bouncy castle, cakes and stalls.

Those attending can also buy sparklers and glow sticks on the night.

A best Guy competition is running for under-12s and is free to enter.

Youngsters should bring their creation to the pavilion at 6.45pm for judging.

Every Guy gets a prize, plus there will be a special award for the winner.

Free parking is available at the field, however spaces are not guaranteed.

A spokesman said: “There can be some loud bangs in our bonfire display so it may not suit the very youngest children, but it’s a great display and the bonfire usually gets to quite a size.”

Advance tickets start at £2 for children and £5 for adults and are available at www.eventbrite.co.uk.

Another fireworks display will be held at Halstead Town Football Club on November 3.

It will be held at the club's ground in Rosemary Lane.

Gates open at 5.30pm with the fireworks display at 6.30pm.

There will be a licensed bar and other refreshments.

No sparklers are allowed on site.

Tickets are £6 for adults and £4 for children aged four and over.

Elsewhere the 2018 British Firework Champions, Illusion Fireworks, will hold a firework display at Witham Rugby Club, in Spa Road, on Saturday, November 3.

Gates to the event will open at 5.30pm.