TOWNELEY Park’s popular bonfire and fireworks display helped keep thousands of revellers warm as it returned for the first time in five years.

Burnley-born goalkeeper Rachel Brown, who plays for Everton Ladies and the England international side, was on hand to set the bonfire alight on a cold and wet East Lancashire night.

The ticket-only event, which included a funfair and a talent show, was held at Higher Towneley playing fields.

The bonfire, sponsored by Trafalgar Street firm Balmers Garden Machinery, was organised by Burnley Council in partnership with the Friends of Towneley Park and local community groups.

Coun John Harbour, executive member for leisure on Burnley Council, said he was ‘delighted’ the bonfire was back at Towneley and praised the ‘fantastic’ event.