A FUNDRAISING fireworks spectacular has proved its absence from the seasonal calendar was not furlong after overcoming several hurdles to find a new home.

The Brighton Lions Club has announced a new home for its much-loved fireworks display after its cancellation last year.

The event, which has annually attracted up to 8000 people and raised more than £34,000 in the past, will be moving to Brighton Racecourse ending uncertainty around its future.

The major event was cancelled at short notice last year when the re-laying of their usual venue of Sussex County Cricket Club’s County Ground overran.

The Lions were then shocked to learn they could not return to the cricket club this year to renew their partnership.

Just weeks later, the club announced they would be holding their own Sussex Cricket in the Community Fireworks Night on Thursday November 5 with former X-Factor finalists Rough Copy and solo artist Laura Comfort set to perform.

That event will be raising money for the Shoreham Air Show Fund and the Sussex Cricket Supporters’ Club.

The Lions’ event will take place at the following night at Brighton Racecourse with doors opening at 6pm and beginning at 7.30pm.

The display is the major fundraiser for the Lions who direct more than 90% of their charitable donations for the benefit of people in Brighton and Hove.

Guy Butterworth, president of Brighton Lions, said: “Development at the County Ground meant that a display there would have to use fireworks smaller than the Lions have used in the past.

“We would not want to disappoint the public by putting on an inferior display.

“Moving to the Racecourse means that we can use bigger fireworks than in the past and so provide a more spectacular display.”

Ticket prices are being held at the same as two years ago despite the promise of a bigger display this year with adult tickets from £10, under 16s £5 and under 5s free.

Spectators will also be able to park for free.

Tickets can be bought through the Lions website at brightonlions.org.uk.