THIS year’s Bonfire Night fireworks display in Pershore will go ahead as planned, despite the organisation which has put together the annual event for many years pulling out.

There had been uncertainty over the future of the display after the town’s branch of the Royal Naval Association (RNA) decided to hand over the reins.

The organisation of it had previously been helmed by community stalwart and chairman of the town’s RNA branch Ted Annis, who worked tirelessly until his death in November last year to make it a success year after year.

Pershore Town Council has now stepped in to ensure the event goes ahead this year, although it has stressed it is not a long-term arrangement and it is hoped another community group will take over the event in the future.

Speaking at the latest town council meeting, Mayor Cllr Tony Rowley said he was not against putting the event together but hoped another organisation, such as the town’s branch of the Rotary Club, would step in to help out with both the organising and the costs.

“It would be sad if we don’t have the event because it is important,” he said.

“We are considering taking it over entirely but really we’d like to partner with another organisation.

“The Rotary has approached us about it but we really need to start moving on with this.

“I know November 5 is far away but we’ve got to get on with it.”

The RNA has handed over £500 to the town council to cover some of the costs of the event and Cllr Rowley suggested the bill could be met using that cash as well as £250 each from the council and the Rotary club.

Cllr Charles Tucker – who also sits on Wychavon District Council – said it was important the council did not commit to paying for the event beyond this year.

“I think it is important that we establish we are doing it for this year only,” he said.

“Taking on the organisation is one thing, but the finance is another. This isn’t something we have done before.”

Cllr Derek Watt said he understood the attraction of the event, but felt the number of other fireworks displays held in the town throughout the year made it less special.

A spokesman from the Rotary club did not want to comment until the group had discussed the plans.