Bonfire Night is coming up fast and if you're looking to make plans we've picked out some of the best displays in our area, depending on where you live!

We all love Bonfire Night (yummee, toffee apples anyone?) but we do recommend that it's always best to get to an organised display if you can. They tend to be safer, there's more to do and it's much less stressful for pets and wildlife. For more information about the events or businesses mentioned just click on the links below.

The Rotary Club of Monmouth are holding this year's Bonfire Night celebrations at the Rowing Club in Monmouth with their annual Bonfire and Fireworks Display on Saturday 5th November. Click here for further details: Monmouth Town Firework display

Again on the 5th November, the popular Usk Town Athletics Fireworks Display at the Athletics Club takes place. There will be a traditional bonfire which everyone can enjoy, burgers and chips if you're hungry and 2 bars! Click here for further details: Usk Town firework display

If you want to go somewhere closer to home, Devauden's traditional bonfire night celebration is being held in the grounds of the Village Hall. Make sure you get there early to be able to park! Details are here for further information.

and, if you live closer to Llanishen, then the annual Bonfire party with firework dispaly is being held in the field adjacent to the Village Hall, and the bar is open for drinks too. We've seen the bonfire and it's a whopper! Click this link for more information.

Perhaps you fancy going to Ross-on-Wye for your Guy Fawkes celebration? The Lions will be holding their annual celebration from 6.30pm at the Chase hotel. For details click here. 

And, after the big day on Saturday, if you fancy going through it all over again, then the Inn at Penallt will be celebrating on Sunday 6th November. Details here.  

Finally,  if you're planning your own display it's really important to remember a few safety tips - Bonfire Night should be fun for the whole family and you want it to be a night to remember, not one you'll want to forget.

If in doubt, The Fireworks Safety Code tells you everything you need to know:

    Do not buy fireworks without a BS 7114 mark on them
    Never drink alcohol if you are setting off fireworks
    Make sure fireworks are kept in a closed box
    Follow all instructions on fireworks
    Light at arms length using a taper
    Stand well back from fireworks once lit
    Never approach a firework that has already been lit. It could perhaps still explode even if it has not gone off.
    Never put fireworks in your pocket or throw them!
    Minimise stress to pets by keeping them indoors
    Children must always be supervised around fireworks
    Never give a sparkler to a child under 5
    Wear gloves when holding a sparkler

All that's left to say is that I hope everybody has a great Bonfire Night - stay safe and have fun!