The biggest and most popular fireworks display in Eastbourne has been cancelled.

Organisers of the event at Eastbourne Miniature Railway Park in Lottbridge Drove, blame a huge hike in public liability insurance.

They said cover for the November 5 display had risen by 2,000 per cent - to more than £1,000.

Park manager and former firefighter Mike Wadey was, with his family, hoping to organise the event for the 11th year running.

But Mr Wadey, who turned a 25-acre plot of derelict marshland into the park in Easter 1991, said the huge rise was far beyond their means.

He said: "My family and I are devastated but we must face up to reality.

"With injury claims hitting insurance companies very hard in our blame culture, it is not surprising that premiums have gone through the roof.

"It does seem unfair though. We have a brilliant record for safety."

The displays, organised with Eastbourne AM Rotary Club, have raised tens of thousands of pounds for international charities over the years.

Eastbourne AM president Ian Lucas said: "We've explored every avenue but, together with the Wadey family, we cannot fork out this large amount of charity money for insurance. We're all very disappointed."

The news is the second blow for bonfire enthusiasts in Eastbourne.

The town's bonfire society has been forced to cancel its celebrations in Polegate on November 22.