DORCHESTER'S Elizabeth Place bonfire has continued to grow despite the town council's efforts to stop it.

Items have been left away from the fire, close to the edges of the play area. The spread has prompted the council to repeat that the site's use for the bonfire is unauthorised. It has again asked people not to add to the existing pile.

The authority said the bonfire would also be uninsured. A suggestion that Magna Housing organise the event has received no response.

Dorchester Town Council said the cost of clearing the field would ultimately be paid by local taxpayers through the council's annual share of council tax.

Residents said the bonfire had been part of local tradition for many years. They said people living nearby looked forward to it.

Signs asking people not to dump waste on the field have been put up by residents.