More than 20,000 revellers descended on the city for the Banks of the Foyle Hallowe'en Carnival on Saturday night, thought to be the biggest of its kind in the UK and Ireland.

Mayor Paul Fleming said it was a night to remember.

"The uniqueness of the Halloween Carnival is the public and community participation," he said. "The number of locals and visitors who attended to make it such a memorable and positive experience for everyone, measures its success."

Sinn Fein Councillor Maeve McLaughlin welcomed the economic boost a successful festival gives the city.

"It has a massive spin off the hospitality sector in particular, with thousands of revellers travelling to Derry and high occupancy rates for accommodation over the weekend."

Inspector Jon Burrows praised the "strong partnership work" across the community in connection with the Halloween event.

"I am pleased to report that the number of assaults has decreased and our messages regarding alcohol are getting through. Hallowe'en has become a positive news story for this city and we are confident this will continue."

Altnagelvin Hospital welcomed a drop in the number of revellers attending its accident and emergency department. A total of 34 patients were seen in the casualty department overnight as a result of Halloween activities, including nine people who claimed to have been assaulted. 22 were in because of excessive drinking, with just three cases of underage drinking needing hospital treatment.

A&E consultant Mr James Steele paid tribute to the efforts of hospital staff and first aid volunteers.

"I am pleased to report a downward trend in A&E attendances as a result of the Halloween festivities this year when compared to previous years. Hopefully this downward trend will continue in the coming years."
It was also a great night in Strabane where thousands of local people turned out to see the town's spectacular fireworks display on the banks of the River Mourne, fancy dress parade and street entertainment.