The strange procession winds its way around the spectators.

Mystical figures in strange costumes and painted masks accompanied by weird chanting and music gave Welfare State's bonfire on Fulledge Recreation Ground an almost pagan atmosphere. A crowd that would have done Burnley Football Club proud watched one of the biggest spectacles the town has ever seen. The evening started with a "tribal" procession in which members of Welfare State carried over-sized effigies of Guy Fawkes and a white horse, the latter being a pagan symbol of pre-guy times. The procession finished with Guy Fawkes achieving his rightful position - in front of the bonfire shaped as the Houses of Parliament. Then the evening was torn by several terrific explosions interspersed with a colourful and spectacular firework display the like of which this town has never seen. But the final act was yet to be completed. Welfare State member Di Davies, wielding a torch about her head set fire to the bonfire and the Houses of Parliament became a roaring flame.

The audience, which included the Mayor and Mayoress, were captivated by the show. Finally the evening closed with another procession in which burning straw effigies were carried on poles. For the children the bonfire was a special treat and it was safe. Welfare State are very pleased with the response and claimed it was the most successful they have ever held. Mr F. Copley, Divisional Commander of the Burnley Fire Brigade, described this year's bonfire night as "reasonable" for the fire service. He said: "Again, as last year, it seems that members of the public have taken our advice." They were called out 16 times but none of the fires was serious.