It might be nearing the 414th anniversary of the gunpowder plot, but this November marks the borough’s first Guy Fawkes Lantern Parade – and everyone is invited to take part.

The procession will take place on Saturday, 9 November and illuminate the dark winter’s night with live music and entertainment for all the family.

After enjoying festivities in Barking Town Square, a giant Guy Fawkes will lead parade participants along Ripple Road to Eastbury Manor House, where everyone taking part will be given free entry to the GLOW Winter Lights Festival, which has returned for the third year.

As dark nights draw in, this is an opportunity for people to come together and light up the streets of our borough, while marking such an important part of our history.

Youngsters taking part in the procession will be given free lanterns, but people are urged to get creative and don their boldest, brightest attire – with glowing or luminous accessories encouraged.

Councillor Saima Ashraf, Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Community Leadership and Engagement, said: “As dark nights draw in, this is an opportunity for people to come together and light up the streets of our borough, while marking such an important part of our history.

“Historic hearsay suggests Guy Fawkes stayed at Eastbury Manor House in the build up to the infamous plot, so what better place to head to as part of our first ever Guy Fawkes Lantern Parade.”

Guy Fawkes was part of a group of infamous plotters whose plan to blow up Parliament on 5 November 1605 was foiled. His failed attempt is remembered each year as Bonfire Night.

The entertainment in the town square will begin at around 3.15pm with the parade taking to the streets from 4.30pm.