REVELLERS welcomed in the New Year with a blaze of colour as rockets roared in the skies above Harwich.

Thousands of people flocked to Harwich Quay to enjoy the town's annual New Year's Eve fireworks display.

The impressive show, which organisers say is on par with the annual display in London, is funded by donations from businesses, Harwich Town Council and residents.

The event was supported by Harwich Haven Authority, which owns the historic Ha'penny Pier and Trinity House.

Free glowstick wristbands were handed out to joyful children and the thousands of visitors gave generously to volunteers carrying collection buckets.

Betty Holbrook, who headed the fundraising efforts for the final time this year, said: "People did give very generously.

"We rely on the thousands who visit to keep us running - the money will go straight back into next year's event.

"I think this was the best evening we have ever had.

"There must have been around 6,000 people lining the Quay."

She added: "Everyone seemed to think it was a marvellous display.

"People always ask why bother going to London when we have this in Harwich every year?"

The first stage of £340,000 improvements to the historic Ha'penny Pier were finished in time for the event.

Trinity House allow full use of the Trinity Pier to accommodate the thousands of on-lookers jostling for a view of the display.

Street lights around Harwich and Dovercourt were left on into the early hours of the morning to ensure people got home safely.