Gunpowder, Treason and Plot

 

On the 5^th November 1605, Guy Fawkes was savagely executed for the attempted destruction of James I and his parliament in the famous Gunpowder Plot.  This was not the end of fearful retribution by government, since as late as 1757 the regicide Damiens was terribly mutilated before being pulled apart with horses by the authorities. 

 

               Happily, the historical and political background to the bonfire celebrations are largely forgotten in Dayton St Leonard, and Bonfire Night is another of those occasions which draws the villagers, their friends and family, and ex-villagers together.  The night was clear, cold, bright and dry, so that the massive bonfire built by The Brooks Brothers and George Farrant was quickly blazing.  On the dot, the first fireworks were lit for the start of a real spectacle.  For many years the fireworks were purchased by individuals and given to the pyrotechnicians for safe ignition, but in recent years this has been replaced by the purchase of professional quality fireworks, leading to an impressive display. 

 

               The evening is not a Parish Council affair, but is spontaneously organised by the village, though - as one might guess - Charles Dickerson is at the heart of it.  Collections for the fireworks are made in the Catherine Wheel and elsewhere, and added to donations from local businesses.  We thank everyone who gave anonymous donations to the collection, and to the businesses who gave most generously.

 

Hugh Farrant,  S.J.Farrant & Son, Manor Farm Drayton St Leonard

Terry Rogers,  T.R. Rogers & Son, Non-ferrous Metal Merchant, Newnham Courtenay

Dave Scarrott,  Bell Motor Service Centre, Berinsfield

 

Next year, when the collections are made, remember that £5 buys a great firework, and for a tenner the organisers can get something stunning.

 

David Watkin