FINAL preparations are under way to ensure Darlington's annual bonfire and fireworks display goes with a bang.

The fun starts tomorrow, at 6pm, when the Century FM roadshow rolls into town with disc jockey Paul 'Goffy' Gough.

At 7pm, the bonfire will be lit.

The fireworks display will start at 7.30pm, organised by one of the world's leading pyrotechnic designers, Graham Wilkinson.

About 50,000 are expected to visit South Park to enjoy the event, which this year has a space theme and is called '2001 - a Space Oddity.'

The Victoria Embankment, Bedford Street and Parkside entrances to the park will be open, but many roads around the town will be closed, and visitors are asked to leave their cars at home if possible and use buses to get into the town centre.

A spokeswoman for Darlington Borough Council, which is organising the event, said: "Due to the anticipated large attendance expected at the event, it is necessary to close a number of roads this year.

"This will prevent congestion in these areas, whilst improving safety.

"We would like to thank the residents near to the park for their co-operation and support during the event. It is appreciated and recognised"

Anyone wanting more details about the event, including disabled parking information, can call the special hotline on (01325) 388410