Vandals destroy Newport community bonfire

Vandals have destroyed Newport's community bonfire the day before it was due to be lit.

Organisers are now facing a race against time to save the event after the 20ft bonfire was burnt almost to the ground early today.

The fire service was called to Newport Rugby Club's Forton Road ground about 1am and soon had the flames under control – but all that remains are smouldering ashes.

The club's annual Bonfire Night event is due to take place at 7pm tomorrow.

Club chairman Andrew Watson-Jones said he was hopeful the show would go on.

He said: "The bonfire we had in preparation for Friday night has been destroyed.

"At some stage very early in the morning someone has come along and set fire to it."