THIS year’s stunning free firework display above Runcorn and Widnes takes place tonight, Sunday.

The spectacular show over the River Mersey beside the Silver Jubilee Bridge takes place on Sunday, November 3.

And the colourful extravaganza will start earlier too, at 7pm instead of 7.30pm.

Music will begin at 6pm as big crowds are expected to gather.

In the past, Halton Council has always mounted a firework display on bonfire night itself.

This year, the new LED lighting system on the iconic bridge will launch the Guy Fawkes celebration with a light show on the landmark structure at 6.55pm.

Every year, thousands of spectators line the River Mersey at West Bank in Widnes and Mersey Road in Runcorn to watch the fireworks display.

As in previous years, a number of road closures in West Bank will be in place from 5pm to 9pm.

Residents only will have vehicular access by producing photographic ID linked to their address.

For safety reasons, the bridge will be closed to all vehicles on November 3, from 6am to 9pm.

The pedestrian footpath will be closed from 6pm to 8.30pm.