Gridlock as Morecambe bonfire night pulls 2,000 people

The bonfire and outdoor disco at the Golden Ball pulled such a huge crowd that dozens of cars trying to reach the Snatchems venue parked up on the road leading to the pub.

Meanwhile motorists trying to get into the full car park had to turn around.

Lancaster Road became so gridlocked that taxis couldn’t reach the venue and had to drop and collect passengers some distance away.

Police temporarily blocked off both ends of the road on Saturday night until traffic eased.

Stephen Hunt, landlord of the Golden Ball, estimated there were around 2,000 people at the event.

Mr Hunt said next year the local authorities should make the road one-way to avoid the same issues happening again.

Aside from the traffic issues, the event has received praise from people who attended.

Laura-Courtney Mayor, posting on the pub’s Facebook page, said: “Brilliant night - they did warn everyone to be mindful about the limited parking beforehand.

“If people hadn’t have just dumped their cars on both sides of the lane and made it difficult for others to get by then it could have been avoided but apart from all that it was a really great night.”

Crowds watched Saturday night’s Lancaster fireworks display at the Castle from the pub’s vantage point overlooking the Lune.

There was also music from DJs Steve Middlesbrough and Tony Crookes, jacket potato and hot dog stands, an outdoor bar and a bonfire.

Steve Middlesbrough said: “It just goes to show that if an event is well organised, has continuity and people like it, that numbers will come.

“It’s a victim of its own success. Last year was manic but it was even busier than last year.

“It’s a credit to Stephen and his team who work very hard and I’m sure they will get the one-way system in place for next year.”