FIREWORK display organisers who drew thousands of revellers to Guy Fawkes spectaculars will bow out without a bang this autumn after being hit by dwindling numbers.

Newport Round Table had put on annual firework fundraisers at the 17th century mansion Tredegar House, Newport Stadium and the old speedway track in Newport for half a century.

The Newport club became the first to open in Wales in 1929 but iwas threatened with closure for nearly two years and was down to just two members.

Members had hoped to put on a Bonfire Night display in November 2014 but have now decided to disband by the end of this month.

The decision marks the end of an era for the club, which once attracted up to 5,000 parents and children to their firework displays and leaves a Guy Fawkes vacuum in Newport.

Branch chairman Paul Thomas, 41, said: “We are bringing to a close over 80 years of fellowship, fundraising and community Service.”

Former chairman Nick Mutch, 49, added: “This is a sad day, but it has to be admitted, it has looked inevitable for some time now.”

The branch said it “struggled on” for nearly two years with just two members, Mr Thomas and Craig Payne, assisted by two former members, Mr Mutch and Geoff Morgan.

Nonetheless, the Newport club continued to help the community by donating £500 to visually impaired bowls player Kevan Bean, who competed in the Blind Bowling Association world outdoor championships in Worthington in July.

They also gave Caerleon Endowed Junior School in High Street, Caerleon, a £500 cash boost to buy books this summer.

The club had previously staged other fundraisers including charity balls and race nights but had trouble recruiting new members who need to be between 18 and 45.

Members will allocate their remaining charity handouts at an official closing meeting later this month. For more information, email info@newportroundtable.co.uk