THE coronavirus pandemic has forced the cancellation of planned fireworks displays across the county.

Events, including the spectacular annual display in the skies above Harwich on New Year's Eve, typically see thousands of pounds shelled out on top-notch fireworks.

The organisers of the annual display at Brantham are refusing to take the pandemic lying down.

They have decided to do things a little differently this year in order to provide a "morale boost" to the village.

Despite the cancellation of the usual display, they will set off £4,000 worth of fireworks regardless, allowing onlookers to view the explosions of colour from their gardens.

Darren Smith, chairman of the organising committee, said the group had decided to shell out around half of what they typically spend on fireworks.

"There was the suggestion we spend half the money we normally spend and do the firework display despite the fact no-one can come, hopefully as a morale boost for the village and for the area.

"It is also a thank you for all the support we've received over the past couple of decades.

"We have had a fantastic reaction to this."

Members of the public will not be permitted to take in the display from the typical venue, Brantham Leisure Centre, but can turn their eyes to the sky from their gardens, bedroom windows and public open spaces.

Prime vantage points include The Cattawade Crown, The Walls in Manningtree, Palfrey Heights in Brantham, and Factory Lane.

Mr Smith added: "We are all massively disappointed that we can't hold our usual excellent event, but circumstances dictate and we hope you will all appreciate that this is a superb compromise.

"It became clear to us with the rise in the infection rate and the rule of six that holding such an event was not practical or sensible, so for this year the event will not happen in its usual format."

The annual display, which has been held for around two decades, typically attracts around 3,000 people.

Onlookers can enjoy the display from 7.30pm on Saturday, November 7.

With the organisers shelling out £4,000 without taking in any ticket sales, they are requesting donations and sponsorship.

For more information, visit the Brantham Bonfire and Fireworks Facebook page.

Harwich's New Years display, hosted at Harwich Quay, will not go ahead this year due to the constraints of the coronavirus pandemic.