SPECTACULAR fireworks displays will see Bonfire Night off with a bang this week.

There are a number of events taking place across Bracknell, Wokingham and Ascot to mark Guy Fawkes Night.

November 5 falls on a Sunday this year, so many of the displays will take place on Saturday, November 4.

Why not pair your fireworks with a bit of horseracing?

Gather friends and family to enjoy Ascot’s first meeting of the 2017/18 Jumps season on Saturday, November 4, featuring the £100,000 Sodexo Gold Cup Chase.

After the last race finishes, preparations will begin for a 6.30pm fireworks show. The Plaza Lawn will be alive with activity throughout the afternoon with fairground rides, face painting and soft play for children. There will also be fireworks themed arts and crafts, clip clop pony rides and food stands including toffee and chocolate apple giveaways.

Ascot will also be serving a range of limited edition hot chocolates, perfect for warming up chilly hands. Flavours include black cherry & dark chocolate, peanut butter & caramel and classic chocolate & whipped cream.

The day is a designated family day so all children under 18 get free entry, adult tickets available from £24.

Meanwhile in Wokingham, the Wokingham Fireworks Society’s Fireworks Display will also be on November 4 from 6pm at Cantley Park.

Fireworks begin at 7.30pm. There will be refreshments, music and entertainment. Entry is £7.50 on the day, £5 advance, and under sevens go free. Call 07976 220114 or visit wokingham-fireworks.co.uk for more information.

And in Bracknell, there will be a charity fireworks spectacular at Wellington College, Crowthorne, with fireworks set to music and lasers.

Gates open 6pm, and bonfire will be lit at 7.30pm, fireworks at 8pm. Advance tickets: families £20, adults £10, under 18s £5, concessions £7. On the gate: families £30, adults £15, children £5, concessions £10. Visit wellingtoncollege.org.uk for more information.

Whatever you do to celebrate, though, make sure you’re safe.

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) has issued guidance ahead of Bonfire Night.

The society has the following tips for anyone having their own display, or going to a public display.

  • Keep fireworks in a closed box and use them one at a time.
  • Read and follow the instructions on each firework using a torch if necessary.
  • Light the firework at arm’s length with a taper and stand well back.
  • Keep naked flames, including cigarettes, away from fireworks.
  • Never return to a firework once it has been lit.
  • Don’t put fireworks in pockets and never throw them.
  • Direct any rocket fireworks well away from spectators.
  • Never use paraffin or petrol on a bonfire.
  • Make sure that the fire is out and surroundings are made safe before leaving.