THOUSANDS of people are expected to attend one of the region's biggest bonfires at Durham Police's headquarters.

The 29th annual spectacular organised by the force and County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service will be held at Aykley Heads, this Friday.

Gates open at 5pm and at 6.45pm, the deputy chief fire officer Paul Henderson will light the bonfire built in the shape of a castle with wooden pallets and cable drums.

At about 7.15pm more than £3,500-worth of fireworks will be set off.

Adult admission is £2 - the 50p rise is the first for more than six years. Tickets for children are £1 and there is no charge for under-fives. Proceeds will go to local charities.

Tickets can be bought on the night or in advance from all main police stations and the main reception at Aykley Heads. Parking will be at County Hall or the Durham Light Infantry Museum.

The event is alcohol-free and anyone bringing drink will have it confiscated. Refreshments will be on sale.

* Other displays take place on Saturday, at Chester-le-Street Cricket Club, Ropery Lane, from 7pm; Lanchester's Kitswell Road playing fields, from 6.30pm; and Shadforth playing fields, bonfire at 6.30pm, fireworks 7pm.