THE whole world was able to enjoy one of the most spectacular Hogmanay celebrations in Scotland.

The historic bonfire at Biggar has become a global attraction since it was broadcast on the internet.

More than 5,000 people are estimated to have squeezed into the High Street to witness the stunning bonfire and impressive torchlight procession.

Twins Jim and Adam Foster, 81, residents in the South Lanarkshire town since the age of four, had the honour of lighting the fire outside the Corn Exchange at 9.30pm.

“It was a great night and the Cornets as always have done a great job planning our wonderful Hogmanay night,” said Peter Rae who has been entertainments organiser for more than 20 years.

“The place was heaving by 9.30 and I am sure we were helped by the decent weather.

“I have never seen as many people at the Bells and this is certainly one of the biggest turn outs there’s been for the whole event.

“People are getting to know now that Biggar is one of the best places to be for Hogmanay. They can watch it all over the world on the internet and we’ve had feedback from America, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Africa amongst others.

“I know that people have travelled from Glasgow, Edinburgh and England to be here for this great night.

“I’ve been putting on the music for a long time now and we did try pop but everybody seems to prefer the traditional Scottish music and we stick with that now.

“People like to dance but it was so busy it was difficult to find the space to do it.” The entertainment finished at about 12.15 but the bonfire continue to glow many hours into the new year.