Weekend Review: Counter Terrorism Night

Anyone who saw V for Vendetta heard the rhyme:

Remember, remember, the 5th of November but there's more:
Remember remember the fifth of November
Gunpowder, treason and plot.
I see no reason why gunpowder, treason
Should ever be forgot...

The 5th of November 1605 is when Guy Fawkes was foiled as he tried to blow up parliament. Like our 4th of July, the English now celebrate this date by shooting fireworks. Unlike our Independence Day, they don't get the day off work. As a result, many celebrations take place at the closest weekend.

Up until Saturday I hadn't actually been to a Bonfire Night. I wanted to, but none of our friends ever seemed particularly inclined towards lighting large fires and shooting rockets into the air. But then this year a friend invited us to his family home near Doncaster to participate in the festivities.

The reason Guy Fawkes night is generally referred to as 'Bonfire Night,' has to do with, er, bonfires. The English celebrate the foiled terrorist attempt by burning things, usually including an effigy of the man himself. For a month before Bonfire Night, most kids from 5-16 plonk themselves in front of a local shop with their own Guy Fawkes to beg for funds to finish him. Some of the cheekier ones, who trust in failing memories, stay out for another few weeks.

But many, our friend included, burn something else. This particular family has a tradition of setting alight Labour Prime Ministers. And this year was a particularly fine example and likeness of Britian's fearless leader. It took old Gordon a good 20 minutes before he began to crumble. Something about dour Presbyterian spirit I expect.

We ate a delicious game pie brought by a fellow reveller. The one thing to mind when eating anything with 'game' in the title is the buckshot. A fair amount of damage to fillings can really disrupt enjoyment of such a tasty treat. Like most English gatherings, the evening turned to drunken tales and a lot of laughter. I really enjoyed it, partially because of the magic of gazing out in a valley full of fireworks. Mostly though, it was due to the company. David managed to corral and excellent group together.

I do think I'd rather participate in the 4th of July. By virtue of being in the summer, the revelry tends to be slightly warmer. No bonfire needed.