“A huge success” – that’s how Neath Rugby chairman Matty Young summed up the Club’s annual community fireworks display.

For many years Neath RFC has taken on the task of organising Neath’s biggest public fireworks display with thousands flocking to The Gnoll for what is now an established fixture in the Town’s calendar.

“It was the best for some time,” said Matty Young, “and we would like to thank the public – young and old – who supported the event and we hope they all enjoyed themselves.”

“It really was a great occasion with everyone enjoying the fireworks and also the stalls and rides.

“We have a small band of volunteers who exceeded expectations to stage the event and Club – and Town – really are very lucky to have them give of their time, energy and organisational skills freely.

“Advance ticket sales via the Gwyn Hall went very well so much so that we were able to reduce the ‘on the night’ prices as we realised we would cover our outlay – the Gwyn Hall benefited quite considerably too so it was a win-win for the community as a whole.

“Neath RFC has always been very active in the community – and I don’t think we always get as much praise or are appreciated as much as we deserve to be although we have been cheered to hear local radio singing our praises and to receive so many accolades on social media.

“November is always a busy community month for us –aside from the usual rugby fixtures, we had the fireworks then we played our part in the weekend’s Remembrance events and now the official switch-on of Neath’s Christmas Lights will take place at The Gnoll.

Nearly 2,500 people attended the Fireworks and Matty Young and the team at The Gnoll are now turning their attentions to the Club’s next big attraction – the huge Christmas rugby occasion when Neath play Aberavon at The Gnoll on Boxing Day, kick off 2.30pm.

Advance tickets for the game will be available from December 3rd – well in time for Christmas presents – and Matty Young says, “The traditional Welsh local derby is another great family occasion and it would be nice to top the fireworks crowd.”