Thousands flock to town for flaming tar barrels
Summary
Thousands of people visited Ottery St Mary, a town in Devon, England, to watch an event where locals carry flaming tar barrels through the streets as part of Bonfire Night. This tradition, believed to date back to the Gunpowder Plot of 1605, involves participants from the local community, many of whom started when they were children. Local officials and safety teams, including police and fire services, were present to ensure the event ran smoothly and safely.Key Facts
- Ottery St Mary, a town in Devon, England, held its annual flaming tar barrel event as part of Bonfire Night traditions.
- The event is believed to have started around the time of the Gunpowder Plot in 1605.
- About 20,000 visitors attended, causing the town to double in size for the event.
- Participants must have been born and raised in the town to take part, and many start as children.
- Safety measures included collaboration with police, fire, and ambulance services to protect participants and visitors.
- A total of 27 barrels were carried by different groups, including children, women, and men.
- The event concluded with the "Gurt Big Un," the Midnight Barrel.
- Minimal incidents were reported, highlighting the effective organization and safety measures in place.
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