The season of the bonfire and the firework is upon us, and verily, all hell is likely to break lose in the next few weeks. Most valleys boys are secret pyromaniacs. Even the elderly ones build huge bonfires on their allotments under the excuse of getting rid of leaves. Mr Penry is no exception and the worried neighbours have occasionally called out the fire brigade to quench his larger creations.

I well remember the first bonfire I ever saw Mr Penry make. We were newly weds, and he made this huge bonfire out of bits of wood, branches and cardboard, topped by a strangely deranged looking Guy, wearing a black hat. We’d had a bit of damp weather that week, so he decided to strengthen the mix with some petrol. We’d invited some friends and family to visit for a Bonfire supper of sausages and jacket potatoes, and we all stood around expectantly as Mr Penry advanced upon the bonfire with a box of matches.

I tried not to be too startled by the initial Whoosh!! even when the flames leapt into the air and straight through the washing line and its wooden prop. I even tried to keep a straight face when I saw my aunty’s face covered in dark smuts, her eyes wide with pale rings around them. What totally cracked me up was seeing the Guy literally flying over the neighbours’ gardens with his bum on fire. We never did find out where he landed.

Ah, those were the days…..

Seeking the Green by Tylluan Penry, published soon by Capall Bann. For more info please watch this space