THE organiser of a popular fireworks display which was postponed last year says he has exciting plans for its return next month.

Jon Gabb, who has organised the popular Southill fireworks display for more than 20 years, says he will pay tribute to his mother Jean at this year's show after she passed away in October last year.

Mr Gabb said it was too difficult to organise a display in 2018, but is hoping to get the community on board with his plans to shoot 100 red heart fireworks into the air this year in memory of loved one.

He said: "My mother was diagnosed with stomach cancer in February 2018, and she wasn't given much time but she survived until October. Because of that, me and my brother couldn't run the event.

"This year, I'm dedicating the fireworks to my mother, and to the mother of my good friend of 47 years, who has also passed away."

Usually held in mid-November, the free display has attracted thousands of revellers in the past and raised hundreds of pounds for good causes. This year it will take place on Saturday, November 9.

Mr Gabb said the 100 red hearts would not be launched at the same time but they would be released in a sequence as the penultimate feature of the main display.

He added: "Anyone can sponsor a red heart. Each one costs £25 with the donation going towards the Southill fireworks event.

"Any money left over will go towards a good cause which has not been confirmed yet."

Mr Gabb says his parents were the original 'founders' of the Southill fireworks display, after they used to hold a display in their garden every year with more and more people watching every year until it grew into a full show.

Southill Fireworks will take place at Southill Shopping Centre on November 9. The venue will be open from 6.30pm for music and entertainment, a bar, barbecue and stalls.

The fireworks display will kick off at 8pm.