More than 4,000 people were denied their annual fireworks show last night after it was cancelled because of the weather.

Brighton Lions spent £6,000 on the display at Withdean Stadium, Brighton, but had to cancel at the last minute because of the stormy weather forecast.

Spokesman John Alden said: "We held on until about four in the afternoon but it was decided it would be unsafe to hold the show.

"Withdean takes between 4,000 and 5,000 people and we were hoping for a full house.

"After the annual Brighton carnival this is our biggest earner and it's very disappointing."

It is the second time this year the Lions have had problems with fireworks displays.

Five weeks ago Sussex County Cricket Club decided the group could not hold its other, smaller, show at the County Ground in Hove in case of damage to the pitch.

Mr Alden said: "We moved it to Southwick Football Club at the last minute and it was a real success on Saturday. We had about 1,200 people in.

"We have been planning the Withdean display since November 6 last year, but these things happen. Our apologies go out to all our regular supporters."