A firework display

The dull, murky water of Lake Windermere was surrounded by the happiness and laughter of the anticipating audience. Children spontaneously danced round the hypnotising bonfire, only to be outshone by the dazzling fireworks as they spiralled into the pitch black sky. Fragrant delicious smells filtered through the air as food was prepared. Bright lights and heckles from the games stalls lured the children in like a lion to its prey. Bonfire Night at Lake Windermere is a night to be remembered!

Fireworks lit up the sky like the neon glow of the Northern lights. The sounds and colours exploding from them were phenomenal. A colossal rocket pierced the night sky as it crackled and popped skyward to its doom. Catherine wheels spun like banshees trying to escape the clutches of its captor, finally slowing to an undramatic end. Sprays of crimson lava spewed from the fountain firework like a mini volcanic eruption. Everyone seemed to stop and watch in wonder as the blood red haze from the traffic light entranced them, the spell finally broken when a wave of aluminous green light gave them the signal to move along.

Juices drizzled and sizzled from the burgers. The smell of salt and vinegar wafted through the air, as succulent hot dogs were grilled on the barbecue. Children buzzed around like bees pursuing the sweet smelling nectar of popcorn and candy floss as it lingered in the air. Bonfire night favourites, sticky toffee apples and treacle toffee, are being devoured messily, but tasted as sweet as honey. Parents despair as over enthusiastic children scream and shout, only to be tamed by the promise of treats from the eager stall owners. Fluffy animals are dangled everywhere. Delightful squeals echo around the amusements stall, as the game is finally conquered and victory is obtained and the priceless spoils are handed over.

Excited children hopped around the raging crackling bonfire as they magically created mystical images with glowing sparklers. Cold, weary parents are drawn to the warmth and comfort of the roaring flames, as it slowly breathed life back into their chilled bodies. The heat turned their faces red like fresh juicy cherries. The bright yellow and orange flickering blaze captivated and memorised the crowd, and the inferno roared like a dragon as it spat and spluttered singed wood and charcoal. Like a cat, the flames licked the scrawny Guy Fawkes at the top. He stood there, lifeless, dressed in tatty old clothes with bright red eyes, and looked like the devil as he was engulfed and consumed by the intense fire. Smoke filled the air. It tasted bitter, and snaked and slithered into the watching eyes of the crowd making them glisten and sting.

Couples, hand in hand, romantically sauntered down to the icy waters edge. Together as one they would light their lantern, kiss gently, and then snuggle together to watch as it gracefully glided and twirled across the glistening lake like a prima ballerina. The silence, tranquilly and romance was broken as children raced to the lake eager to be the first one to light one of the special lanterns. Their hands shook as they tried so hard to be careful with the wafer thin lantern. As they cautiously set the lanterns down onto the rippling water, it gradually edged its way into the dark unknown. The once murky dark lake was now lit up like a Christmas tree, with fireflies shimmering across its surface.

Bonfire Night drew to a close. Tired, weary children were snuggled up like little lambs in their parent's arms, all ready for their warm cosy bed, their favourite teddy bear, and a good night kiss from Mum and Dad. Couples arm in arm gradually walked home. A relaxed and content glow on all their faces after a fun filled evening. The once raging bonfire was now just glowing embers twisting and turning like fireflies. The night sky returned to its peaceful existence. The smell of gunpowder was everywhere, and the lake mirrored the night sky with the lanterns twinkling like stars.