Labour Council renames Guy Fawkes Night

The Evening Standard reports that Southwark Council is renaming Guy Fawkes night "The Colour Thief: A Winter Extravaganza Celebrating The Changing Of The Seasons".

I wonder if the new name will catch on. The event takes place in Dulwich Park on November 4th and is the only official fireworks display in the borough. 

Cllr Veronica Ward, Southwark's cabinet member for culture, leisure and sport, says:

"It is shorthand (for fireworks night). It is an event and festival around an artistic proposal that involves some fireworks."

She says the "shorthand" name is because there will only be one event due to the cuts. Holding it will cost £55,000. But in Ravenscourt Park, in the eponymous ward I have the honour to represent, the council hosts a magnificent fireworks display each year which makes money. We do this by selling tickets.

Even if they do decide to hold just one fireworks display this does not mean that ditching the traditional name is justified.