Alexandra Palace's annual firework spectacular proved to a success for the 45,000 spectators but a disaster for the accountants.

The Wood Green landmark produced a 25-minute firework extravaganza which drew gasps from the crowd with its thunderous explosions.

But the Palace's trustees are now counting the cost of the event. After collecting just £18,000 from donations, officials are hoping that other revenue will push that figure to nearer £30,000 to break even.

Admission was a suggested donation of £1.50 for adults and £1 for children and the total collected was a substantial increase on the £12,000 last year.

Despite Ally Pally's financial problems, £3,000 was raised for Haringey Mencap and the Mayor's charity.

The event took five weeks to organise and the display was designed by a pyrotechnic specialist, featuring rockets from all over the world.

After the display, crowds went inside the building to be entertained the funfair, music from Town FM, and the ice rink.

Organiser Damien Bush said: "I am very pleased with the way the event ran, as it is an extre

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