A BONFIRE which was cancelled after running for more than 40 years has been rescued by popular demand.
The traditional Betley Bonfire at Betley Court Farm was first held almost half a century ago and has been a popular event ever since.
But it was extinguished when Betley Village Hall Trustees were forced to abandon it because of a lack of money and manpower.
Now Newcastle-under-Lyme Lions have stepped in and organised a replacement event which they say will be bigger and better than ever before.
Lions vice-president John Leigh said: 'The event was vacant and people wanted it to proceed. We were asked to do something about it and consulted with Crewe and Nantwich Lions, who run the Crewe bonfire, and got them to use their expertise to help us set up this event. Our bonfire will be far larger than it has been in the past.
'We are always trying to support local causes and nationally we support the Special Olympics for the disabled. We also do Christmas hampers for the needy and raise money for Hearing Dogs for the Deaf.
'We hope the event will be successful and that people will come along and help a good cause.'
The Lions event will feature a five-metre bonfire, built by members of the club with the help of community service workers and a spectacular fireworks display set to music. There will also be a fairground and food on offer.
* The event takes place on Saturday, November 3 and will open at 5pm. The bonfire will be lit at 7pm with the fireworks beginning at 8pm.
Tickets are priced at £5 for adults and £2 for under 16s. All proceeds go to charity.
