Set designer for King Charles and Coldplay helps with firework night

The firework display last night was the 53rd put on by King Coel's Kittens, and also included a parade of the Guy Fawkes effigy from the Castle Park bandstand.

The Colchester-based group was formed in 1960 by journalist Bill Tucker, with a handful of young people coming together to discuss how to raise money to support residents with special needs.

Special - Organiser Judy Alden said the set design helped make this year one of the most successful firework nights since they started in 1970 (Image: Steve Brading) Judy Alden, who runs the event with husband Bernard, said: "We were very slow to start it but by the end they were queuing by the High Street so we had to delay it a little bit.

"I thought the fireworks were absolutely amazing this year. It was one of the most successful nights that I’ve known".

Judy said that this year's success was due to a local friend - who wishes to remain anonymous - who has created set designs for Kylie Minogue, Coldplay, and even the King.

Judy added: "There was a tall prison, to bring the Guy to the Low Park.

Set - The set designer has also worked for the King and Kylie Minogue (Image: Steve Brading) "A silhouette appeared at the window at the top of the prison, which had a spotlight on it. We were so lucky to get the designer and as we cannot have the Bonfire now, it made the whole precession great."

A meeting is due to take place in late November where the fundraised money will be given to only local organisations. 

She added: "A big thank you also to all the people you don't see who are helping. 

"The people behind the Guy, the people behind the set, and the organiser Jackie Bowers. It's about 100 people are putting their bit in and about between fifty and sixty work for free.