The revival of the Helston Old Cornwall Society midsummer bonfire on Saturday proved a great success, with some 150 people gathering at Lonon Farm, Sithney, for the traditional event.

Following an opening hymn, the age-old ceremony was explained to the assembled crowd by Cornishman Richard Jenkin, before the traditional prayer was read, both in English and in Cornish.

The lighting of the bonfire is intended to keep the sun high in the sky and even the weather played its part with the sun appearing just as the bonfire was lit by Sithney vicar Father Harry Pugh and host Lionel Thomas.

Music was provided by the band, and pasties and other refreshments were served after the ceremony.

Society president Martin Matthews said the evening had been a great success.

"I think it was one of the best we have ever had. It has been almost ten years since the last bonfire and it was very encouraging to see so many people there."

Now that it has been revived, it is hoped the bonfire will once again become an annual event.