The gates at HMS Sultan opened to the general public on Thursday night as the Establishment hosted its annual Bonfire & Fireworks Night.

Thousands of people from across the region gathered to enjoy a fantastic evening of entertainment culminating in a spectacular fireworks display with its very own fireworks ships.

Among the many people in attendance was Laura Belbin with her parents and her children Toby (2) and Elliot (6) family from Gosport, she said: “We come to the fireworks every year, because we love it. The kids love the fireworks and the treat of buying sweets and we always enjoy it.”

“It’s always a nice place for people to come with their family and I like the fact that it brings everyone as a community together just to have a good time.”

Captain Peter Towell the Commanding Officer of HMS Sultan said: “It is an enormous privilege to welcome so many visitors to the HMS Sultan Bonfire & Fireworks Night.”

“We have an incredible fireworks display this evening as well as lots of other activities for people to enjoy.”

“The event provides everyone from the Establishment with a fantastic opportunity to serve our local community and I am immensely proud of their efforts.”