A NIGHT of family fun is coming to Weymouth as a free annual event returns for the first time since 2019.

Weymouth's annual Guy Fawkes event, which usually brings thousands of visitors to the town, will once again be held on Friday, November 5, after it was cancelled last year due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Guests can expect to see the return of all their favourite features, including a funfair, a Guy Fawkes competition, a bonfire and a fireworks display.

The event begins at 4pm with a funfair on the Weymouth Pavilion forecourt, followed by a children's Guy Fawkes competition in the foyer of the theatre at 6.30pm, which will be judged by the town's mayor, the cast of Weymouth Pavilion's Christmas pantomime Aladdin, and the team leaders from Weymouth Swimming Pool and Fitness Centre who, along with Alexandra Gardens Pleasure Grounds, will be providing prizes for the competition.

After that, a giant beach bonfire will be lit at 7.40pm, before the grand finale fireworks display over Weymouth Bay at 8pm.

Further stalls and attractions will be dotted along Weymouth seafront throughout the evening.

Mayor of Weymouth, Councillor Colin Huckle said: "Weymouth's Guy Fawkes event is always a great spectacle and very popular, creating a wonderful atmosphere on Weymouth's seafront.

"Each year many thousands of people visit the town to enjoy and share one of our great local annual events in a fun and safe environment.

"Weymouth Town Council is glad to be able to hold this event this year after unfortunately having to cancel last year's event due to the pandemic.

"I would like to thank council staff for the work that's required to put on an event of this scale and I very much look forward to seeing people there on the night."

Dorset Council-run car parks in the town will be free of charge on the night after 6pm, however, Weymouth Town Council is asking visitors to consider, where possible, to leave their cars at home and use public transport or to walk to the town centre.

For more information on the event, visit the Weymouth Town Council Facebook page.