THOUSANDS of spectators are expected to line the banks of the River Mersey to watch Halton’s 2015 fireworks display.

Modern classics synchronised to the pyrotechnics are expected to contain some James Bond tracks to coincide with the release of his latest film Spectre.

The free Halton Council show can be seen from either side of the Silver Jubilee bridge at Mersey Road in Runcorn and Victoria Promenade in Widnes.

Live performers will start singing at 6.30pm on Thursday, November 5.

Singers will be on stage as street entertainers roam round.

This year’s Brindley panto star Dean Gaffney from Eastenders will launch the fireworks at at 7.30pm.

Spectators can also watch the display from the canalside café terrace of The Brindley which will be joining in the celebrations.

Halton Cllr Eddie Jones, board member for events, said : "Why not leave the sparklers at home and come and enjoy a safe and free show guaranteed not to disappoint.”

Panto star Lauren Wenton, who plays Princess Jasmine in Aladdin, launched this year's display with Halton Cllr Jones and Steve Garnett and Phil Aitken from Highlight Pyrotechnics.

This year vehicle access to West Bank, Widnes, beyond the junctions of Waterloo Road/Upper Mersey Road and Waterloo Road/West Bank Street will be limited to residents only.

In Runcorn it will be residents only beyond the junction of Church Street/King Street.

These restrictions are in place between 5.30pm and 8.30pm when only motorists producing photo ID along with proof of residence in the area will be allowed access.

This is to ensure the safety of pedestrians viewing the display.