THE future of a Bonfire Night extravaganza that regularly attracts crowds of more than 5,000 people has been secured for another three years.

The free spectacular, now in its 47th year, is the biggest annual community safety event in Northallerton.

And local company Simon Bailes Peugeot has committed itself to being the sponsor for the next three years.

The company has sponsored the show for the last few years and will now co-ordinate, manage and market the event in order to help it grow and develop.

The event is organised by local firefighters on behalf of the town council and helps to reduce firework-related accidents – last year there were only two call-outs in the area and neither were serious.

But despite its success it relies largely on the support of local businesses and donations.

This year’s extravaganza, on the Applegarth at 6.30pm on November 5, will include an organised bonfire and fireworks display as well as fairground attractions. It’s hoped people will make donations on the evening.

Mr Bailes said: “This is one of the longest running events for Northallerton and the surrounding areas and helps to massively reduce accidents on Bonfire Night.

“We want to develop the event and make it bigger and better- especially as it nears its 50th anniversary.”