Look at these fabulous creations….
I was told as I was walking down to the local Catshill shops to pay cash for my few purchases and postage, that these stuffed effigies are a new Community ‘thing’ this year.
When we were kids in the ‘50s we would stuff a ‘guy’ and put it in a wheelbarrow, which we would wheel around the neighbourhood and knock on the doors and ask for “A penny for the guy”. If we were lucky we would get a few pence to go to the local store for a couple of Catherine wheels or some crackers.
Naturally, growing up in Lewes just next to the downs where the bonfire was built and lit every year was a bonus.
We all know about the tar barrel parade, and we got dressed up to be in it a couple of times, otherwise we would all gather around the fire behind the prison to watch a huge effigy of Guy Fawkes light up the night sky.
In our own gardens a few neighbours would club together to have a smaller celebration but the pooled money was there for a few rockets as well as the usual golden rains and coloured smokes.
Apple pies and potatoes and chestnuts roasted in the embers were the order of the day.
I don’t know if these things still happen nowadays. These November 5th traditions seem to have been hijacked by the new phenomenon of Halloween with all it’s trimmings – more expenses for already stretched budgets !!!!
Anyway, enough of the Grinching !! It was fun to see the efforts the locals have been to already.
I am flying back to Africa on the 4th October so won’t see the full extent come the end of the month.
This one has to be my favourite…
Well done to those who are getting into the Community Spirit – so badly needed right now.
Happy Guy Fawkes Night or Halloween everyone!
