A major fireworks display in Abingdon is being cancelled because of the firefighters' strike.

The display, from the top of the old County Hall in the Market Square, was scheduled to be the grand finale of Abingdon's Extravaganza this evening (November 26).

But health and safety concerns because of reduced fire cover forced organisers to cancel the display unless the strike ended today. The Christmas lights switch-on will go ahead as planned.

Abingdon Town Council's technical officer Steve Rich said: "We can only go ahead if we have proper fire cover but because of the fire- fighters' dispute we cannot take the risk of a firework causing a blaze at another property.

"It will be very disappointing because the fireworks display is always the best feature of the evening."

Mayor Audrey Tamplin, who will switch on the Christmas lights at 6.45pm, said: "We cannot go ahead if there is a risk of a fire breaking out.

"Nevertheless there are plenty of things going on tonight and it will be an entertaining evening for everyone, young and old."

The theme is Witches and Wizards and takes its cue from Harry Potter. New lights and displays festoon the town thanks to business sponsorship.

The event, which starts at 5.30pm, will also feature a funfair, face painting, street entertainers and a snow machine.

Staff at many of the town's shops will be dressed up to match the theme and the mayor will judge the best entry.