Sir – It is the custom in some of our parishes to observe November 5th by bonfires. This year, in my opinion, it will be advisable to drop this custom. When the Government are prohibiting all unnecessary lights it will be well for all to fall in with their regulations. When in God’s good time we shall be able to celebrate the return of peace to our land by rejoicing of various kinds it may be reasonable to carry out a properly organised celebration as in the case of the Jubilee and Coronation bonfires. But in this time of distress and anxiety to waste good fuel would surely be a sinful proceeding, and I trust that all well-disposed persons of all ages will set their faces against anything of the sort, at any rate this year.
I am yours truly,
Hilaris
Banbury Guardian, October 1914