After the Essex oyster feast, here's another curious custom: Tar Barrel Racing.
The custom, which takes place each year on Bonfire Night, is thought to have started in the 17th century when it was done in a bid to ward off evil spirits.
Surprised the Health and Safety bods haven't put a stop to this.
This Saturday Hatherleigh Carnival will be tar barreling too - the police watch and ignore that folks are throwing diesel onto the barrels to keep the flames licking ever higher. It's a hoot but a H&S anathema.
www.hatherleigh.net/carnival_2006_tar_barrels.asp