FAMILIES are encouraged to attend the Dumbarton fireworks display at Levengrove Park this Guy Fawkes.

The display on November 5 will see more than 700 fireworks sent skywards, as well as a children’s fun fair and hot food available. The displays, delivered by Highlight Pyrotechnics, will have a net explosive content of more than 220kg and are expected to attract around 5,000 spectators per event.

The 20-minute show will feature a range of exciting fireworks, including comets, mines, spinners, hummers, whistles, strobes and dragon’s eggs, and light up the sky in an array of colours.

The Dumbarton fireworks will follow on from the Clydebank show in Dalmuir Park on Friday, November 4. Cllr Lawrence O'Neill, West Dunbartonshire Council's political liaison with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, said: "The two events in West Dunbartonshire are always very well attended and I would encourage people to come along to our official displays instead of having their own fireworks.

“Along with the fireworks display, we have a great range of family entertainment before and after the main event. By attending one of our free official displays you’re guaranteed a breath-taking display that won’t cost you a penny."

Neither venue offers on-site parking and many of the streets around the parks will have parking restrictions in place. Certain roads will also be restricted during the event: Bridge Street, between High Street and Woodyard Road will be closed and restrictions will be put in place on Clydeview, Clydeshore Road, Helenslee Road, Comelybank Road, Dixon Drive, Dixon Avenue, Kirkton Road, School Lane, Levenford Terrace, Veir Terrace, Woodyard Road, West Bridgend, Access Road to Leven & Lomond Court and Bowie Street.

The restrictions is anticipated to be applied from 6pm onwards on November 5.

Councillor Kath Ryall, Chair of West Dunbartonshire Leisure Trust, which is staging the event on behalf of the Council, said: “I would encourage people to turn up early and enjoy the entertainment and great atmosphere prior to the start of the display.

“With thousands of people attending both events, I would ask everyone to ensure they adhere to parking restrictions and rules on sparklers and fireworks to ensure we have a fun, safe event for everyone to enjoy”

The event will start at 7pm and run until 9pm, with the fireworks display beginning at 7.30pm. Visitors are asked to arrive at the event in plenty of time and to travel on foot or by public transport if at all possible.

The council also urges people not to bring their own fireworks or sparklers, as these can present a safety issue in large crowds, and advise that pets be left at home.