PEOPLE in Worcester were startled this evening by loud bangs from a fireworks display.

The display was held to celebrate the 475th anniversary of the King's School in Worcester.

Residents from across the city reported hearing the loud bangs, which began at around 4.30pm and lasted for around 10 minutes.

Pet owners say their animals were terrified by the unexpected noise, while many criticised the volume of the bangs.

However, many enjoyed the spectacular display which could be seen around the city, with one resident describing the fireworks as a "lovely treat". 

The King's School has apologised to anyone distressed by the noise and said it was "never our intention" to upset any residents.

Kerie Bass, aged 36, lives in Comer Road and said her three pet dogs "turned themselves inside out" with fear at the sound.

She said: "My dogs started barking, it kept going on, I went outside and found my next door neighbours were out on the street.

"It was very, very loud. Around November you kind of get used to it but in December you do not expect this amount of noise."

Worcester News readers took to Facebook to express their surprise at the noise, with some claiming they could hear them in Droitwich and Pershore.

Kel Thomas said: "Oh! I thought we were being invaded! My house is shaking! They didn't sound like fireworks, guess I can come out from under the table then"

But Kerry Horne said: "We live in barbourne had a great view, my children and I thought they were a lovely treat and my cat couldn't give a toss."

And Jenny Watkins said: "Well it didn't bother me or our cat ......All the folks moaning about noise what the hell will you be like when we have Olly Muirs and Bryan Adams singing .What a coup for good old Worcester .Just remember when your dead you hear naff all"

The display was held on a field at the King's School and was watched by students, parents, staff and onlookers.

Russ Mason, director of marketing and communications at the school, said: "From our point of view it was a culmination of a wonderful day of celebration marking the 475th anniversary of the re-foundation of the King's School.

"It was a magnificent firework display from our own fields which could be viewed across the city.

"If the noise upset anyone we are very, very sorry. King's is always keen to work with the local community and hopefully the vast majority would have enjoyed what was quite magnificent.

"If we did upset anybody we are very sorry and it was never our intention."

Students and staff at the school have celebrated the anniversary in a number of ways, including themed lessons and short-story writing in 475 words.

A special peal of bells was rung from Worcester Cathedral this afternoon, shortly after which the firework display began.