Remember, remember the 5th of November
An audacious plot to disrupt Westminster will be celebrated with fire next Saturday in Campbeltown. Ever since Guy Fawkes led a band of provincial English Catholics in a failed attempt to blow-up the House of Lords in 1605, bonfires have burnt an effigy of the Yorkshireman and, since about 1650, fireworks have been added to the celebration. The Toon’s festivities, entirely supported by voluntary donations, are co-ordinated by Campbeltown Fire Station, Dalintober and Millknowe Tenants and Residents Association, Campbeltown Coastguard and AM Transport, which delivers the fireworks. A spokesperson for Campbeltown Fire Station said: ‘Since Campbeltown bonfire night started there have been far fewer call-outs to ‘rogue’ bonfires.’ Young firefighters raise money to fund the bonfire and fireworks using collection buckets on the evening. The fire station spokesperson added: ‘This year’s collection helps pay for next year. It is a community event, locally funded and any donations are much appreciated. To support the event send a message to the Campbeltown Fire Station Facebook page.’ This year Graeme Harvey will provide musical entertainment before the fire is lit at 7pm, followed by the fireworks at 7.30pm. In addition volunteers will hand-out sweeties and glow sticks to children. It has been stressed the event, also promoted on its website by www. explorecampbeltown.com, is weather dependent and precise timings may need to be changed according to the risk assessment.