Thousands gathered across Northern Ireland for the annual Eleventh Night bonfires, with towering pyres set ablaze in loyalist communities to mark the start of the Twelfth celebrations.

While many events passed peacefully, fire crews faced a challenging night responding to incidents and safety concerns, including bonfires built on hazardous sites and symbolic effigies sparking controversy.

The tradition remains a powerful cultural marker but continues to draw criticism for sectarian imagery and public safety risks.