Every year on 5 November for reasons lost in antiquity, the Flaming Tar Barrels are carried through the streets of Ottery St Mary to the delight of thousands of townsfolk and visitors.
Ottery St Mary is internationally renowned for its Tar Barrels, an old custom said to have originated in the 17th century. Each of Ottery's central public houses sponsors a single barrel. In the weeks prior to the day of the event the barrels are soaked with tar. The barrels are lit outside each of the pubs in turn and once the flames begin to pour out, they are hoisted up onto local people's backs...
As these dramatic photos show, the Ottery tar barrels event last night proved to be another flaming success.
Those who have visited Ottery St Mary on 5th November, still find it difficult to understand what motivates the townspeople into carrying flaming tar barrels through the streets. However, it is a much-loved tradition that is hundreds of years old and attracts thousands every year.
The exact origins are unknown but probably started after the gunpowder plot of 1605. Various alternative reasons suggested for burning barrels have included fumigation of...
