Lewes Bonfire: Authorities Believe It'll Be A "Non Event"

Public authorities and emergency services in Lewes said today (September 21) they expect this year's Bonfire commemorations to be a "non event".

The multi-agency group said:

"The event usually attracts tens of thousands of people to the town and causes over-crowding, but this year there are serious concerns that there will be additional public health issues due to the pandemic.

"Bonfire Societies are already changing or cancelling their plans which means the public will not be able to see the usual celebrations."

The group promised further information would soon be available.

Their full statement can be read here.

Lewes is at the heart of Sussex Bonfire celebrations, as it normally hosts the country's largest November 5th processions and aerial displays.

But three of the town's six Bonfire societies, whose members process in fiery order on the night, have already cancelled participation.

Southover, Cliffe and Commercial Square said they did so in the knowledge that a Covid-safe event might be impossible to organise, would impose too much strain on already busy emergency services, and shared the hope of making the 2021 commemorations better than ever.

Today, the group of emergency services and local authorities who plan for the safety of attendees urged visitors to say away, as it does every year, though the remaining three societies haven't yet indicated their intentions for the night.

Their message was focussed on people from outside Lewes who travel to the town to attend the events, despite public transport being cut in the late afternoon, and roads being closed.