THE traditional Farnham Round Table fireworks and torchlit procession went off with a bang once again last Saturday, raising more than £35,000 for local charities.

More than 5,000 autumn revellers brushed off their long-hidden winter jackets and came out in full force, as the event kicked off at 6.15pm in Central car park with a procession of torches led by a Scottish pipe band in full regalia.

Having weaved their way up Castle Street to Farnham Park, food, mulled wine and Hogs Back beer kept the adults entertained, while a variety of children’s rides kept younger guests happy.

A magnificent bonfire, diligently guarded by Round Table volunteers in the build-up to the big day, was lit at 7.15pm, followed shortly after by the Best Guy competition, attracting many inventive entries from schoolchildren across the area and won by Folly Hill School for the second year running.

A professional firework display set to music got under way at 7.45pm, illuminating the whole of Farnham from its hilltop location near the castle.

From 7pm onwards – and again after the fireworks display – local band Late To The Party performed live on the stage, while Morning Matt from Eagle Radio also entertained the crowds between sets.

Thanking the event sponsors, Dan Troup, of Farnham Round Table, said: “The Hogs Back Brewery joined us for their second year and we are very pleased to have a local brewer as our sponsors again.”

He also gave particular thanks to the 41 Club, Tangent, Tim McCarthy, Bourne Blades, Farnham Scouts, The Hedgehogs charity, Farnham Furnishings, Katy Poulsom of Poulsom plant hire, the Herald, schools volunteer marshals, Farnham Fire brigade, Surrey 4x4 ,“and all the other volunteers who made the evening possible”.