Bonfire Night

When we were children, we used to have a bonfire every year. This was held on the local rec – a large park area that had at one stage been a base for a playground and football pitches, but was now just a bit derelict.

It was not an official one, and quite often there was more than one, but there was never any trouble. At about 11 o clock, the fire brigade would come round and make sure that none of them were left. we would be well home by then, and normally the fires had died down hours earlier.

But now a days, it is a night of concern for the emergency services. It is seen as a good idea to throw fire works, build fires in the most inappropriate of places, and put peoples lives and homes at risk.

Wood is collected for weeks, and the fires are not small ones, where young people can roast a few chestnuts and chat, but there is a competition to see who can build the biggest, and who can make it last longer. Wheelie bins are being removed form their rightful owners and trawled around the neighbourhoods 

The most shameful thing is that for a few years, the fire fighters have had to go out with a “Trojan appliance”. This is a second appliance attending a fire, only it is police officers rather than fire fighters, so as they can arrest the people who find it funny to stone or attack the fire fighters.

The mentality of the people who do this amazes me. Some are in their mid to late teens, so should have more sense. Others are kids of 6 or 7 and it appals me that at that age they would consider such a thing.

Fireworks through the letterbox is another little gem. It is easy enough to block up your letterbox for a few days, but many older people do not think to do this, or even think that it is necessary.

I also have memories of bonfire night at home. My dad lighting the fireworks in the garden, and baked potatoes and soup. Then later opening the curtains after I had gone to bed to watch the displays set off by the older children.

If only it could be as much fun now, but sadly there will always be someone who want to spoil it.