RICHARD BATSON The new year starts with a bang at Cromer as the resort holds a free fireworks show on the first day of 2006.

RICHARD BATSON

The new year starts with a bang at Cromer as the resort holds a free fireworks show on the first day of 2006.

Thousands of people flock to the seaside town for a teatime display on the pier.

But this year there are added attractions: some fun run races for those wanting to limber up their legs, and a quiz for those keen to exercise their brains.

The event began as a one-off to celebrate the millennium, but has become a popular annual fixture.

North Norfolk District Council has agreed to provide free car parking on Sunday from 2pm.

The fun races, supervised by the North Norfolk Beach Runners, will have four classes over a one-mile course on the promenade, for under-13s up to seniors, and an open race for fancy dress.

Registration is on the pier forecourt at 2.30pm with entry £2.

Quiz sheets, giving families a chance to test themselves on a walk around the town, are available from the parish church all afternoon.

A torchlit procession leaves the church at 4.30pm, and the fireworks will be at the pier at 5pm, weather permitting.