THE final preparations are underway for this year's Himley bonfire and fireworks display.

A huge bonfire has been built and checks have been made to make sure no wildlife are living in the bonfire, before it is set alight on Saturday, November 2.

This year's Himley Bonfire will celebrate 50 years since the moon landings and will see the return of a premium viewing area on the South Lawn complete with a private bar and gourmet food.

The Mayor of Dudley, councillor David Taylor, was given a tour of the bonfire this week by sponsors Wates Living Space.

He said: "It was great to see all the work and preparation at Himley Hall and Park today, we didn’t see any wildlife on our walk around the bonfire pallets but the teams will continue to check right up until the event."

"I would like to remind everyone that tickets are still on sale and that people can save significant amounts off the gate price when they book online now."

Advanced online tickets cost £10 for adults, £5.50 for children and senior citizens and £24 for a family ticket for two adults and two children.

A shuttle bus service will be in place to Himley from Dudley, Stourbridge, Halesowen, Cradley Heath, Sedgley and Coseley.

Gates at Himley Hall open at 4.30pm, the bonfire will be lit at 7.45pm and a 25 minute fireworks display starts at 8.30pm.