A 23-minute fireworks display lighted up Hong Kong's Victoria Harbor Friday in a celebration of the 55th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China.

Sponsored by the Chinese General Chamber of Commerce, the fireworks display attracted at least 430,000 Hong Kong residents and tourists.

A total of 28,300 pieces of firing shells were discharged in the display, beginning at 8:00 p.m.

To occupy a good place for photo taking, some amateur photographers went to Victoria Harbor as early as 3:00 p.m. Friday.

Police had increased forces for maintaining security at both sides of the harbor.

Divided into 10 spectacular scenes, the fireworks was, for the first time, discharged from four barges, making the display more panoramic.

Highlights of the display were the fourth, sixth and last scenes. The fourth scene featuring smiling-face patterns, coupled with colorful comets at low level.

The sixth scene with fireworks shells bursting from water, changing color from gold to red patterns, created appealing visual effects.

The fireworks reached the climax at the last scene with fast and rhythmic display of colorful patterns at different heights to create a stunning impact.

(Xinhua News Agency October 2, 2004)