Pictures: Spectacular fireworks display wows thousands in Forest Gate

Newham held its fireworks display on Saturday at Wanstead Flats. Pictures: Andrew Baker and Paul Boylin (Image: Andrew Baker and Paul Boylin)

The free Guy Fawkes Night display, courtesy of Newham Council, saw a capacity crowd 25,000 people take to main site on Centre Road, Wanstead Flats, Forest Gate, and an estimated 8,000 line nearby streets.

Newham Mayor Sir Robin Wales high-fives a local lad. Pictures: Andrew Baker and Paul Boylin (Image: Andrew Baker and Paul Boylin)

Heads raised to the sky, they were treated to a 20-minute display accompanied by a soundtrack from music legends including David Bowie, Michael Jackson, Frank Sinatra and Whitney Houston. Spectators could also pick up an array of food.

The free display lit up the sky in Forest Gate. Pictures: Andrew Baker and Paul Boylin (Image: Andrew Baker and Paul Boylin)

Newham Mayor Sir Robin Wales watched the display with residents. “It’s always terrific to see so many families enjoying themselves at our free events,” he said.

25,000 people turned out to see the fireworks. Pictures: Andrew Baker and Paul Boylin (Image: Andrew Baker and Paul Boylin)

“Our annual fireworks display is always a great show. The turn-out again has been terrific with everyone enjoying themselves in a safe and friendly environment.”

The show went ahead despite a national firefighters’ strike by members of the Fire Brigades’ Union over the weekend that saw a contingency service take over duties.