NOVEMBER is a time for looking back.

While many look forward with New Year’s resolutions at the end of each year, the penultimate month is one when we look back.

The month begins with Bonfire Night, a strange celebration of the failed attempt to blow up Westminster in 1605.

In the 400 years since the country has endured much though this curious night of celebration continues to be marked across the land.

Certainly the Gunpowder Plot of the 17th century is likely not the chief reason this event is still marked and these days is more of an excuse for communities to get together one last time before Christmas.

Sadly the event has become controversial in recent years with pet owners in particular calling for its end while traditionalists insist it is part of the fabric of community life.

It is an interesting debate and it will be interesting to see who wins that particular battle.

Remembrance Sunday is also marked in November and remains just as important to communities today as the first a century ago.

It is difficult to put into words the sacrifice of two generations who gave their lives to protect their loved ones in the two bloodiest wars ever fought. Lest we forget.