Remember, remember the 5th of November

guido_fawkesRemember, remember the fifth of November
Gunpowder, treason and plot.
I see no reason, why gunpowder treason
Should ever be forgot.

 

Bonfire Night celebrates the failed attempt by Guy Fawkes to blow up the Houses of Parliament back in 1605. Realistically, on the 5th of November people forget the history and just enjoy the chance to let off fireworks, have a bonfire, cook sausages outdoors and drink tomato soup.

Firework Fiascos

Firework displays don’t always go smoothly.  For example, in August 2009 over 100,000 people assembled in Bournemouth for a “heart-pounding, roaring, glowing, explosive event like no other – the launch of 110,000 fireworks in 60 seconds or less”.

What happened was 100,000 rockets were all let off at the same time from a barge just off the shore. People turned to one another said, ‘was that it?’ or ‘what was that?’

Fake Bonfires – yes that’s right – FAKE bonfires! 

There was a new development for Guy Fawkes celebrations in 2007 – fake bonfires. The reason is because of the astronomic increase in cost of public liability insurance, which is now required for November 5th celebrations.

Strangley, the problem is the cost of insuring the bonfire and not the firework display!?

Even our very own Trowse, Norwich had its own fake bonfire!

The Trowse community group organised a fake bonfire display, which was projected onto a 30ft by 15ft screen. The idea of using a film came after they brainstormed alternatives when insurers refused to cover their bonfire.

A spokesman for Trowse, said: ‘Quite a few people came and I think it went down rather well.’ The three-hour film featured a bonfire that he had filmed in his back garden before the recent concern over public liability insurance.  The fake bonfire was popular with parents of young children who didn’t have to worry about their little ones getting too near any real flames.

Although we don’t think you can beat having the warm glow on one side of your face whilst dripping ketchup down your sleeve.

If you fancy celebrating in traditional style with flames and loud bangs here’s what’s happening near us.

Fireworks Displays in Norfolk

Wherever you are this Bonfire Night have a safe one and don’t light the bonfire until you have checked these little fellows are out of it.

8623.Ben Hall (rspb-images.com)