Visitors are being urged to arrive early for one of the most popular events in the north Norfolk calendar - the Cromer New Year's Day fireworks.

After debuting at the turn of the millennium, the display from the end of the pier has become an annual highlight, with 8,000-plus people expected to line the cliffs and beach to watch.

Firework committee chairman Jim Bond said: 'We're delighted it's become such a successful annual event, and with plenty of good vantage points to watch the display, come early, we don't want anyone to miss it.

'The idea has always been to bring people up to the coast for a breath of fresh air, something to eat and drink, and a fabulous firework display over the sea fired from Cromer Pier at 5pm.

'This year, January 1 is a Wednesday, so linger longer and enjoy the evening. Cafés, pubs and restaurants will also be open, so there'll be plenty of places to get a cuppa or something stronger.'

There will also be teas and coffees in the Church with mulled wine outside Cromer Museum.

The display raises over £3,000 for local good causes, on top of providing enough money to fund itself for the following year.

This year's display has been designed to conclude quietly with red fireworks, representing poppies, floating on the sea to mark the 100th anniversary of the commencement of the first world war in 1914.

Before the big event, at 3pm there is a fun run along Cromer Prom – a one-mile event organised by North Norfolk Beach Runners. Starting from the pier forecourt, it is open to all ages and abilities, with categories for under 13s, 14-16s, seniors, and fancy dress. Registration is from 2.30pm on the pier forecourt for a fee of £1.

There will be illuminated light-sabres and lanterns available to buy during the afternoon outside Cromer Museum. Cafés, pubs, shops and restaurants will also be open.

Donations from spectators last year raised over £8,500. Mr Bond said: 'Everyone's aware that budgets are still tight, but we do ask people give as generously as they can. Just a few coins can make a lot of difference to local charities and good causes – and without everyone's help we couldn't continue the annual display.'