HUNDREDS headed out to watch Weymouth Bay sparkle beneath a firework display as the final wish of a much-loved father was granted.

Monday night’s display, in aid of Weldmar Hospicecare, was dedicated to former patient Mike Hunter.

As a pyro-technic operator for Pains Fireworks Mr Hunter had been responsible for setting off Weymouth’s fireworks for more than 20 years.

Before his death in October 2016, he spoke with his family about his love for the event and his wish was for his ashes to be scattered during the display.

His daughter, Sam, a teacher at Thomas Hardye School, said: “We discussed where he really enjoyed being, and one of the things he loved doing was the fireworks in Weymouth. His one little caveat was that we needed to make sure that we did some fundraising at the same time.”

Organisers promised that the display would be the “biggest and best” fireworks Weymouth had ever seen and spectators were not disappointed.

Holidaymaker Laura Oltman who watched the display called it an “amazing performance”.

She said: “The family should be so happy and their father would be so proud of them.”

Tina Stretton, visiting Weymouth from the Midlands, said: “It was an absolutely brilliant display and it was great that it was all in aid of such a good cause.

“There were tons and tons of people on the beach and they all seemed to be enjoying themselves.”

Businesses throughout Weymouth and Portland teamed up with Pains Fireworks and Weldmar to host the free seafront spectacular with a number of fundraising activities taking place on the beach throughout the day.

Weldmar’s head of fundraising Matt Smith said: “We were absolutely delighted with the amount of spectators who joined us for this special display, and most certainly one of the biggest and best displays Weymouth has seen in years.

“We were pleased to be able to hold this event in celebration of Mike Hunter, thanks to the generous support of so many local businesses without who, we would not have been able to continue with the event.

“We would like to thank all the sponsors, supporters and spectators for ensuring this was a successful event for Weldmar Hospicecare and ensuring that Mike’s wish was granted, a display in celebration of his life.

The money we have raised will help more patients receive outstanding care here in Dorset and enable us to continue supporting their loved ones too."

Donations for the event can be made online at www.weld-hospice.org.uk/weymouth-fireworks.