Rocketing after gas explosions
canisters The remains of the gas Residents in St Fillans were shocked when their Bonfire Night went off with more than just the predicted bang.
Two explosions erupted not long after the fire had been lit, with gas camping canisters later discovered in the embers.
Harry Burnett, who helped organise the village event, said fortunately everyone was quite far back but whoever put the canisters in must have known the dangers of putting a gas canister in a fire.
Onlooker Ruth Graham was appalled and described the act as“vindictive behaviour”.
She said:“Whilst not a loud explosion, there were clearly audible whooshing noises, followed by a burst of flames.
“The men involved in lighting the fire and fireworks could very easily have been injured.”
Ruth added:“This cannot have been done by accident as the bonfire was hand-built from scratch by gentlemen of the village.
“I just can’t believe that someone would be so mindless.
“If they’ve placed those canisters there deliberately their malicious actions could’ve had serious consequences.”
Meanwhile, at the Crieff bonfire in Market Park on Sunday night, someone threw an aerosol can into the flames – causing a bang which made bystanders jump.
Gregor Elliott of event organisers Crieff Round Table said the bonfire is constructed on the day and then supervised until it is lit but it is hard to plan for someone throwing a pressurised can once it is alight.
He said:“Although we were delighted with this year’s event, we heard reports of a small explosion from the bonfire.
“Eye witness accounts suggest that it was caused by an irresponsible person throwing an aerosol can on to the fire.
“It goes without saying that the potential for harm from this sort of mindless behaviour is unacceptable.
“We regularly receive feedback that attendees like to be close enough to the fire to keep warm.
“And it would be a shame if we had to establish a much larger perimeter or move the fire well away from spectators.
“We plan and hope for a fun and safe family event each year and therefore we hope that this was an isolated incident.” The rockets are lit in Crieff