The famous Flaming Tar Barrels

You will no doubt be aware of the unfortunate incident at one of the Tar Barrels this year where some mindless idiot threw some kind of device, thought to be an aerosol can into a barrel, the consequence of this was that several people were injured from the resulting explosion

This whole episode has jeopardised the future of the event and incensed a community who on the whole support what is seen as a premier event in the country’s annual calendar.

The Police have started an investigation and need all the help they can get from anyone who may have information by way of photos or videos or who may have witnessed the throwing of the object into the barrel. They can be contacted through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Let us not forget those individuals who have sustained injuries and an unrelenting media spotlight. We thank them all for their support in apportioning the blame to one individual and supporting our right to carry on our tradition.

I cannot over emphasise the damage this incident has caused not only to individuals but to the ability of the organisers to carry on the tradition. The ending of the right for local folk to express themselves freely through the streets of the town, as has been the case for hundreds of years would be devastating and I fear yet another nail in the coffin of the right to free expression.

Andy Wade
President
Ottery St Mary Carnival Committee