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In pics: Huge crowds turn out for Bonfire Night celebrations

An effigy of Harvey Weinstein was burned in Edenbridge, while locals in Ottery St Mary carried the traditional Tar Barrels through the streets.

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Tens of thousands of Bonfire Night revellers have braved the cold to watch spectacular fireworks and processions across the country.

Bonfire night
In the small Devon town of Ottery St Mary, locals carried the traditional Tar Barrels through the streets (Andrew Matthews/PA)
Bonfire night
It is thought that the event began as a pagan ritual to cleanse the streets of evil spirits (Andrew Matthews/PA)
Bonfire night
Each of the town’s central pubs sponsors a barrel for the event (Andrew Matthews/PA)
Bonfire night
The barrels are soaked in tar, set ablaze and then hoisted up onto local people’s backs and shoulders (Andrew Matthews/PA)
Bonfire night
The custom is said to have originated in the 17th century (Andrew Matthews/PA)
Weinstein effigy
Meanwhile, an effigy of Harvey Weinstein went up in flames at a bonfire celebration in Kent (John Stillwell/PA)
Harvey Weinstein
Edenbridge Bonfire Society said the Hollywood film producer was the “obvious” option this year after the abuse allegations against him came to light (John Stillwell/PA)
Bonfire night
Organised by a team of volunteers, the evening began at 6.30pm with a torch-lit carnival procession through Edenbridge High Street (John Stillwell/PA)
Bonfire night
More than 10,000 people attend the annual event, with families visiting from London, Surrey, Sussex and Kent (John Stillwell/PA)
The Battersea Park fireworks over Albert Bridge, in London
Elsewhere, spectacular fireworks were on display over Battersea Park in London (Victoria Jones/PA)
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