THE crackle of firewood and the smell of gunpowder may be difficult to recreate online, but there are plenty of websites worth a visit in the run-up to November 5.

Important safety information (plus a short virtual demonstration) can be found at the website from the British Pyrotechnists Association and the Explosive Industry Group

There are useful tips about the safety of garden displays and sparklers as well as general tips to keep safe.

If the whole history of the gunpowder plot and the activities of York's Guy Fawkes are your interest, then there are a few good sources of information.

The Gunpowder Plot Society publishes a lot of information about the time and invites anyone with an interest in the events and people surrounding the plot in 1605 to join them.

At the award-winning www.innotts.co.uk/asperges/fawkes/ there are volumes of historical information together with a spoken introduction, pictures and musical accompaniment.

If the preparations for your own event are nearly complete and it's time to get the invitations out, then take a visit to www.fireworks.co.uk.

A selection of firework images can be e-mailed to your guests with a suitable message from this site where there is also safety information and a listing of organised events you can add your event to.

But don't forget to send your details for inclusion in The Northern Echo and on www.thisisthenortheast.co.uk by sending an e-mail

Once you have done the research, ordered the fireworks, publicised your event and invited guests there's only one thing left to do - make the toffee apples.

Try the recipe at www.britannia.com/cooking/recipes/toffeeapples and enjoy your November 5.