Transformation Thurrock : Bonfires and Bun Fights at The Old Tennis Court

Bonfires and Bun Fights at The Old Tennis Court

Some 50 people turned out for the Fireworks Party on Thursday 5 November at The Old Tennis Court in Allenby Crescent, Grays.

Those present came from the four principal groupings who use and are linked with Grays' community prayer house: the Thurrock Healing Rooms; the Ladies' Nurture Group; the Men's Bible Study Group; and 'church-in-the-house'.

All come from a wide variety of church backgrounds - or no church at all. Even Dylan the Dog came along (principally for the sausages - he wasn't so keen on the fireworks). This evening was simply an opportunity to be church, together, enjoying each others' company, eating, talking, and having 'just a little bit of fun'.

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Family and friends were invited to watch a phantasmagorical display of pyrotechnic deftness and delight - a selection of the usual fizzlers, whizzers, fountains, rockets and damp squibs. This was followed by the solemn lighting of the bonfire by the maestro of the matches, Mr David Matthams (right).

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Then it was bun fight time, and everyone tucked into a wide selection of two of the finest soups known to man, burgers and hot dogs. This was accompanied by pleasant conversation, with such as Claire & Richie Ballah (left), and a little bit of networking too.

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Pictured right are some of the young people who came to the hottest event in town. These four are (right to left) James Cox, Elliot Cranefield, Jonny Harrold, Joe Cole warming themselves in the glow of the bonfire.

With thanks to Barbara & Trevor Brown for preparing the garden and house and the splendid punch; to Vera Harrold for buying everything, cooking, and making sure Tim didn't blow himself up; and the aforementioned Dave 'Matchless' Matthams.

Tim Harrold, 06/11/2009