A POPULAR fireworks display has been hailed a rocketing success after attracting 8,000 visitors on Friday night.

The event, organised by Redditch Council and police, was held at Arrow Valley Lake and went without a hitch.

In recent years, the event had been hit with troubles after bomb threats and appalling weather conditions forced it to be cancelled at the 11th hour on two occasions.

But a council spokesman said: "We were very pleased with the event this year. There was a great roadshow and some spectacular fireworks."

Pc Stan Baker, who organised policing at the display, said: "There was a great atmosphere and everyone was well behaved.

''There were some difficulties with traffic and inconsiderate parking on the Coventry Highway and we may consider taking action next year against people who do park in this manner."

Elsewhere in Redditch, police and fire crews responded to scores of complaints and calls from residents about fireworks and bonfires over the weekend.

Pc Baker said: "We had 36 calls over the weekend about youngsters letting off fireworks and throwing them.

''People were complaining the fireworks had caused minor damage to their homes, were a nuisance and were being let off in inappropriate places near buildings.

He added: "We would ask parents to know where their children are and what they are doing at this time of year."