Thousands of people flocked to the Bught Park in Inverness last night for the city’s huge bonfire and fireworks display.
Weather conditions were ideally calm and dry for the event, and cheers went up as bursts of colour lit the skies above the Highland capital as crowds enjoyed the spectacle.
Families were delighted by the 20-minute musical display accompanying the fireworks, arranged by award-winning team, Fireworx Scotland.
Others were happy to stand beside the massive bonfire built on the pitches at the Bught.
Many people arrived early to grab the best space next to the 40ft fire.
The winners of last year’s guy competition were Kirkhill Primary School so that school had the honour of putting their special creation on top of the fire.
Meanwhile informal displays could also be seen – and heard – throughout the city and across the Highlands.
Communities in Kincraig and Invergarry held their own organised displays. Saturday will also see a number of displays. Invergordon’s Torchlight Parade will take place at 6.30pm, followed by the bonfire at 7pm.
Thurso Rotary Club will host their display at Thurso Harbour and Esplanade on Saturday at 6.45pm.
Ballachulish Community Council’s event will be at Ballachulish quarry at 7pm on the same day.
Scott Hay, local senior officer for Scottish Fire and Rescue Service in Highland, said: “We want people to join the fight against fire and attend an organised display. They are safer and more spectacular.
“Carelessness around home bonfires could end up taking firefighters away from other incidents which could put lives at risk.
“People have been known to consume alcohol during home displays and fire and alcohol don’t mix.”
Chief Inspector Graeme Murdoch, Inverness area commander, said: “We urge everyone to follow the safety advice given by Scottish Fire and Rescue Service in respect of bonfires and use of fireworks.
“We want people to enjoy the time of year in safety and recommend that organised displays or events are the best way to do so.”
Games fireworks, Page 18