THOUSANDS of people packed out Yarmouth for its spectacular annual fireworks display on Tuesday.

An estimated 5,000 people crammed into The Square for the Guy competition before the FaT Samba Band led a torchlight parade up the High Street to The Common where the fireworks which were set off from a barge on The Solent.

The event was organised by the Yarmouth Carnival Committee, and Jen Allen, who recently took over as chair, said: "The town was packed, it was a great turn-out. I think it was busier than usual because people had missed out on other displays on the Island over the weekend due to the weather.

"It was different for me being the new chair of the committee rather than watching as a spectator, but I hope everyone enjoyed a fabulous event.

"The FaT Samba Band entertained everyone beforehand in The Square while people were gathering. They have some dancers as well now, so that made it a bit different.

"All the torches sold out, so we hope to have made enough to cover our costs to hold the event again next year."

The guy competition was judged by Mayor of Yarmouth, Steve Cowley, Sylvia Mence and Hope Giles, the Spirit of Carnival.

Results: 1 'Smarter Guy', Steve and Paula Cornall; 2 'Smart Guy', Rhys and Willow Duffy, aged three and five; highly commended: 'Island Roads', Howell Family. Most Amusing Guy: 1 'Lady Guy', Tallulah Mears, aged eight 2: 'Fred', Joseph Pontin, aged five. Best Local Business: 1 'Arthur Anti-Fouler', River Yard Boatyard.