PUBLIC firework displays and bonfires are being scrapped in Guy Fawkes' home city - because of rocketing insurance costs.

Hundreds of people will miss out on the Bonfire Night spectacle laid on at New Earswick Sports and Social Club.

And villagers at Osbaldwick will no longer be able to enjoy a display in a field behind the village's Derwent Arms pub.

In both cases, organisers say the decision has disappointed villagers, but the events risked losing too much money.

They claim the biggest cost hike has come in obtaining insurance for the event as Britain becomes an increasingly litigious society.

People in York have been dependent on privately organised displays in recent years after City of York Council scrapped its displays at Clifford's Tower and Knavesmire, mainly because of concerns over costs.

York's situation contrasts with Harrogate, where the borough council organises a display on the spa town's Stray each bonfire night.

Brian Lowson, manager at New Earswick Sports and Social Club, said: "Insurance has shot up to almost £1,000, compared to £700 last year."

Chris Coverdale, of New Earswick, who has children aged two, three and 11 and has been to the club display in the past, said: "We are very disappointed. The kids love it. Now we don't know where to take them."

Paul Horner, landlord of the Derwent Arms at Osbaldwick, said the insurance bill was going to come to at least £2,000, and the display would just have lost too much money. "You just can't justify it," he said.

However, some venues are still pressing ahead with displays.

Updated: 10:39 Tuesday, October 14, 2003