Guy Fawkes Night in the UK

On that night, fireworks are released all over the UK. Bonfires are lit and an effigy of Guy Fawkes is burnt.

In the days leading up to the event, you are likely to be accosted in the streets by children who show you a crudely made dummy and ask for 'a penny for the Guy'.  

They'd be most offended if you did give them a penny, they'll probably expect at least ten pence, if not more. The money they collect will be spent on fireworks for the celebration (although it's quiet illegal to sell fireworks to children in the UK).

By the morning of November 6th it's all over. The smell of gunpowder is everywhere. Millions of pounds of fireworks have gone up in smoke. The UK fire service has had its busiest night of the year and thousands have visited the accident and emergency units at British hospitals for burns treatment. So who was Guy Fawkes and why is he so unpopular? Find out more.