Newport bonfire event defies arsonists

Bonfire celebrations in Newport went off with a bang despite arsonists setting the 20ft stack alight just hours before the event.

Newport Rugby Club was gearing up for the event last night but suffered a set-back on Thursday when club members arrived to find the bonfire already lit and burnt out.

A huge rallying call was made and residents, farmers and business owners quickly donated wood and furniture to save the family event from ruin.

Donations had come from people in Telford and Shrewsbury who heard the plight of the rugby club.

The event attracts about 1,500 annually as children and their families come from across the county to see the bonfire and fireworks display.

Club chairman Andrew Watson-Jones said last night's fire was bigger than the original one after so many people rallied round to help.