PREPARATIONS for Darlington's annual fireworks show are under way, with the spectacular event expected to attract more than 70,000 people.

It will go ahead in the town's South Park on Saturday, November 6, despite the on-going refurbishment there.

For the second consecutive year, the External Combustion firm has been commissioned by the borough council to put on the display.

Organisers said this year's show was designed to celebrate the £3.9m revamp of the park, with both fireworks and music chosen to reflect the project.

Magic 1170 radio and 96.6TFM will host a music roadshow from a specially-converted double decker bus called The Monsterbox.

The lighting of the traditional giant bonfire takes place at 7pm. Gates open at 6pm and the fireworks display starts at 7.30pm.

Council officials said the event would create huge demands on car parking in the town. People planning to attend have been encouraged to use public transport if possible. Extra bus services are expected to be provided.

Entry and exit will be via the three points on Parkside, as well as those at Victoria Embankment, Bedford Street and Henderson Street. A major programme of road closures will be in place around the park.

Roads closed from 4pm to 9.30pm will be Victoria Embankment, Bedford Street and all the side roads between Bedford Street and Clifton Road, to the south of Victoria Road.

A small section of Henderson Street will be closed at the junction with Belvedere Road.

The council said special arrangements were being made for residents in the affected area who need access during the closure period.

There will also be a range of catering outlets at the event, fairground rides, medical facilities and a centre to re-unite any lost children with their family and friends.