A FANTASTIC firework display that will raise money for charities in and around Worcester is set to light up the sky tomorrow.

The Worcester Round Table's annual charity bonfire and firework display will once again take place on Pitchcroft Racecourse.

It is the Round Table's biggest fund-raising event of the year, with the money raised going straight back into the Make A Difference campaign that was recently re-launched in conjunction with the Worcester News.

The campaign distributes up to £1,000 every month to a variety of community-based societies, clubs, groups, and charities.

More than £16,000 has been distributed to more than 60 worthwhile causes since the campaign's launch in 2003. All of the money comes from the fund-raising efforts of Round Table volunteers.

The charity bonfire and fireworks display attracts up to 8,000 spectators, and visitors this year will be able to enjoy a large funfair before and after the spectacular 20-minute display.

The bonfire, which takes about 30 people up to six hours to build, will be lit by mayor Coun Ian Imray.

The display has been a regular fixture in the city for about 35 years. The Worcester Round Table has been around since 1951.

Meanwhile, police are warning people they will be issuing £80 spot fines to people breaking the law.

They can fine people setting fireworks off late at night, youngsters caught with adult-only fireworks and anyone in possession of fireworks in a public place.

Offenders who refuse to pay could also be prosecuted and face a £5,000 fine and/or six months in jail.

Worcester MP Mike Foster supports the spot fines.

He said: "I've heard of cases where families have been disturbed late at night, children have been threatened by fireworks or elderly relatives felt trapped inside their homes and I've seen horrific injuries sustained by city youngsters.

"That's why we need to make sure that fireworks are enjoyed safely not endured in silence. And that's why I'm supporting police in cracking down on people who use fireworks to terrorise others."

l Gates open at 6pm, the bonfire will be lit at 7.30pm before the fireworks are set off at 8pm. Tickets are adults £3, children £2 and £10 for a family ticket.