“Everyone likes a firework” – so says Verne Sanderson, and he should know as each year he puts on a spectacular display of pyrotechnics.

Thousands of Medway families agree and marched out on Saturday night for another colourful treat of bangs, whistles and soaring explosions of every colour imaginable.

This year an estimated 25,000 people converged on the heritage park.

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It is thought to be a record number, no doubt helped – eventually – by the clear skies and mild temperatures.

Just hours before, with gale-force winds and heavy downpours, there were fears that it might have to be cancelled.

Mr Sanderson said many who attended, including the mayor and mayoress, said the free show, put on by Medway Council every year, was the best yet.

Mr Sanderson said: “We were glued to the weather forecast and when it got to 2pm there was real concern.

“Thankfully, it calmed down towards the end of the afternoon. But as a safety measure we did extend the viewing area by about another 50 metres away.”

A steady flow started to arrive at the park from about 6pm as people settled down with a hot drink and snack and tried to find a good vantage point.

The mayor, Cllr Barry Kemp, lit the giant bonfire at 7pm to the delight of the crowds lined up at the fencing.

Apart from the main event, which started at 7.30pm, other attractions included a funfair for little ones and music.

Mr Sanderson: “It was a fantastic display.

“We tend to get such huge numbers because the Great Lines is sandwiched between Chatham and Gillingham and is easy to get to. There’s something about fireworks that attracts all ages,cultures and races.”

And for those who did not make it, the fireworks could be seen lighting up the sky across the Towns.

For all the photos from the night pick up Friday's Medway Messenger and see if you can spot yourself.