Sparks are flying in Snodland this week after residents were told the firework display would go ahead without the usual fun of the fair.

More than 160 residents signed a petition after Snodland Town Council announced the fair would not be returning this year. The council said it had to act after fears for spectators’ safety.

Council chairman Peter Misy said disaster was narrowly avoided at last year’s display when a rocket firework was set off in a large crowd of people.

He said: “The night has become so popular, it has left us with no option but to stop running the fun fair. We only have a limited area of space and we don’t want any of our spectators to be in danger.”

The fair has been running for at least 20 years and features hook-a-duck-style stalls and rides such as the tea cups and big swings.

It is organised and operated by a family who live in the town. They say they are disappointed by the decision, but would not want the public to be in any danger.

Bethany Cradduck, who has helped run the fair, said: “Speaking as a member of the community, not just someone associated with the fair, I’m really disappointed that it won’t return.”

The 18-year-old, who lives in Waghorn Road, has previously taken younger relatives to the celebrations, but never witnessed anything that made her feel unsafe.

She said: “You do sometimes see people drinking, but there’s nothing the fair owners can do to stop that.”

Although the petition to keep the fun fair is still open, the fireworks display looks set to go ahead without it on Wednesday, November 4, at the Potyn’s sports field in Constitution Hill.

The town council has applied for permission to close Constitution Hill between 7.50pm and 8.10pm to manage the departing crowds.