AROUND 5,000 people attended this year's Fern Bonfire at Speech House – making the 22nd annual extravaganza the most successful for years.

In comparison to 2008's event, attended by half the number and raising about £1,000, organisers the Forest of Dean Lions and Severndean Lions estimate this year's proceeds to be a staggering £10,000.

"From where I was standing it seemed like a really good, community atmosphere," said Geoff Davis from the Forest of Dean Lions. "There was no known trouble as there has been in previous years, and I think banning alcohol for this year's event was a good move.

"I would like to thank Mr and Mrs Hands, the Speech House owners, for helping us and leasing the field.

"We really are blessed with a wonderful location – the way the bonfire lit up the autumn colour of the trees is truly spectacular and the fireworks display was fantastic, too." There was a funfair and food.