DESPITE the rain, wind and boggy underfoot, more than 20,000 people turned out for this year’s Winchester Round Table bonfire and fireworks display on Saturday evening (November 9).

Around £60,000, with £2,500 being made in donations on the night, was raised by the event, which will now go towards local charities and other good causes, including the Winchester Hospice.

The 200 volunteers included Winchester Rotary, Army and Police Cadets and local community groups, and numerous city-based businesses donated time and equipment.

Charlie Sell, bonfire chairman 2019 from Winchester Round Table, said: “Thank you so much to everyone who attended the event, volunteered on the night or helped us to put on the largest one day charitable event in the city.

“The money raised means we can spark a change for people who really need support in the city.”

Most of the crowd started their celebrations in The Broadway and followed the torch-lit procession up the High Street.

The long line weaved through the city streets before ending up at North Walls Recreation Ground for the main event.

Entertainment was provided by a number of local acts, including the Winchester Rock Choir and Intergr8, a dance group.

Winchester Round Table is a social group of 28 young men aged between 18 and 45 who aim to make a difference to their local communities, and find lasting friendships.

The organisation has been running since the 1930’s and nationally, Round Tables raises more than £3.3m a year for charity.

The next local branch event will be the Christmas Santa Sleigh, which last year was held during the Christmas Light Switch On in the High Street.

l All photos by Daily Echo Camera Club members Kayla Louise and Joshua Drake