SPARKS flew both on and off the field as Bury Football Club staged a fireworks display and funfair on Sunday to raise money for charity.

Children and families from across the town came to the display at Gigg Lane, with proceeds going towards a Ronald McDonald House — a wing for families at Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital.

John Dacks, event organiser and director of Big Fun Promotions, said: “It was a great success. Everybody was happy and had a great time.

“My company’s main aims were to do our bit for charity, hold a safe firework display and raise awareness of the cause we are promoting.

“We were really pleased with the result — everybody enjoyed themselves and that’s what the night was all about.”

Mr Dacks also emphasised the importance of bringing the town, and in particular families, together. He said: “Nowadays, there doesn’t seem to be as much community involvement in the area as there used to be.

“People also don’t seem to spend as much time with their families.

“Having said that, there were so many families at Gigg Lane and that’s what my company’s policy is all about, to put on events for families.”

As well as the fireworks display, visitors were able to enjoy fairground rides, toffee apples and sparklers.

Big Fun Promotions now plans to stage a charity football match at Gigg Lane between the players and the public, which has been suggested for February or March.