Firework displays thrill crowds

The two-day event attracts thousands of spectators

Thousands of spectators gathered at vantage points all around Plymouth Sound for the annual British Fireworks Championships.

Six of the country's top fireworks companies are competing against each other over two nights.

Each team is given 10 minutes to thrill the crowds and light up the sky.

But a ban on the export of fireworks from China during the Olympic Games in Beijing has made it difficult for the teams to buy some explosives.

"China has restricted the export of fireworks from July through to the end of August, so there have been a few problems with delayed shipments and a few items haven't been available," fireworks adjudicator Tom Smith told BBC News.

Council support

About 500kg of explosives are let off during each display.

It is the 12th year the championship has been held in Plymouth.

The event, which is supported by the city council, attracts thousands of local people and holidaymakers.

The competitors on Tuesday were Dragon Fireworks from Ottershaw in Surry, Skyburst The Firework Company from Bedminster in Bristol and Star Fireworks from Bracknell in Berkshire.

Fireworx Scotland from Inverurie in Aberdeenshire will compete on Wednesday against Phoenix Fireworks from Wrotham in Kent and Pendragon Fireworks from Cwmbran in Wales.

The overall winner will be announced after the final display on Wednesday night.

The displays begin at 2130 BST.