It was the hottest ticket in town - Weymouth fire station was packed out for Saturday's Fire Cracker Christmas Fayre.

Torrential rain did nothing to douse the flames of fire safety demonstrations - or the enthusiasm of residents and organisers, who said they were pleased with the turnout.

Everyone appeared to be in high spirits, with performances from the Twirl Academy majorettes,Wyke Regis school choir and Ed Hintz choir entertaining visitors.

Outside the venue, crowds jostled outside to get a decent view of a chip pan fire demo.

Waiting patiently and undeterred by the downpour were Weymouth residents Jaydan Tetley, 8, and Summer Harvey, 10, who had a go on the charity sponge-throwing event, under the watchful eye of Carole Harvey.

She said: "It's been a nice day out - despite today's weather being not so good.

"We came along to an event here last year, it's fun for children and raises money for important causes."

Onlookers watched from a safe distance as a fire officer poured water onto a flaming chip pan, which dramatically shot flames into the air.

According to Adrian Miller, temporary watch manager with Dorset Fire and Rescue, sharing preventative Christmas safety messages is a priority for the fire service.

Mr Miller said: "We're holding live demonstrations of a Christmas tree fire, as well as a rescue from a simulated crash, to highlight the risks of drink-driving.

"The event is also a way to raise money for important causes and raise awareness of our current recruitment drive for retained firefighters.

"I couldn't have hoped for a better response from the community - I'm delighted with today's turnout."

Fire officers from Weymouth and Poole were on hand to meet and greet residents, as well as event organisers from SafeWise.

Ben Heath, SafeWise manager said: "It's amazing to see so many people have come out despite the weather being awful - it really goes to show how important it is to have this facility in the neighbourhood.

"We wanted to bring people together for a fun family event, and hopefully make sure everyone enjoys a safe Christmas."

Funds raised at the event are going towards Firefighters Charity and Safewise.

For more information about SafeWise Weymouth, find their page on Facebook or call 01202 591330.