Visitors urged to avoid bonfire event in Lewes

Councils, emergency services, and transport providers in East Sussex have urged visitors to avoid travelling to Lewes' bonfire celebrations as higher levels of attendance than normal are expected this year.

Tens of thousands of people attend the Lewes Bonfire procession in the town every November, and because this year's event falls on a Thursday, there is an expectation that the crowds will be bigger.

The parade sees effigies paraded through the town, climaxing in a huge bonfire and firework display.

East Sussex County Council, Lewes District Council, East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, South East Coast Ambulance Service and Sussex Police are among the bodies to issue the warning.

They said that the significant amounts of fireworks and narrow streets present a "unique challenge" in terms of public safety, adding that the event is not suitable for children, young families or dogs.

A number of road closures will be in place from 16:45 GMT on 5 November, including the A27 junction with A277 Brighton Road (Ashcombe Roundabout), A275 Offham Road with B2116 Plumpton Road, A26 junction with A2029 Malling Street and the Church Lane junction with Mayhew Way.

Lewes residents are advised to get vehicles home before 16:00 to avoid any road closures in place. Visitors are urged not to bring vehicles into the town.

As with previous years, trains will not stop at Lewes or the surrounding stations of Falmer, Cooksbridge, Glynde and Southease from 17:00 on the Thursday until the start of the following day.

The group added: "Police officers will be working closely with partners to maintain order, prevent crime, and respond swiftly to any incidents.

"Everyone attending is asked to play their part in keeping the event safe. If you see suspicious activity or something that doesn't feel right, report it immediately to a steward or a police officer."

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