TICKETS are selling out fast for the biggest annual fireworks display in Hampshire, the first time in its 50-plus year history that it has had an admission charge.

Winchester Bonfire Night, organised by the Round Table, usually attracts more than 25,000 people to River Park.

Retailers have reported brisk sales for the first ticketed event. In the past volunteers have stood shaking buckets and people have made voluntary donations.

A handful of tickets were reported to still be available, with any remaining available at the High Street market from members of the Round Table until 4pm today.

Tickets cost £3 each in advance and some may be available at the North Walls event after 5pm at £5 each.

Events start at 6pm with a torchlight procession from the Broadway, along the High Street, Jewry Street, North Walls through to River Park. The procession usually attracts thousands of people especially families with children.

The bonfire will be lit at 7.15pm and the fireworks will fizz into action from 7.45pm.

Last month the Round Table warned the event could be jeopardised by any expansion of the River Park Leisure Centre onto the open space.

The city council is considering taking a large chunk of the cricket pitch for a new centre with the current building to be demolished and replaced by an enlarged car park.

Proceeds from the event go to charity.