Police and fire chiefs urge public to avoid Lewes on Bonfire Night
Emergency services have issued their annual warning to stay away from Lewes on 5 November due to safety concerns at the major annual event.
Annual safety warning issued
Fire and police chiefs have urged residents and visitors to stay away from Lewes next Thursday (5 November) when the town holds its Bonfire Night celebrations. The event is the biggest and most popular Bonfire commemoration of the season, but emergency services say the crowds pose significant safety risks.
Train services suspended
To help reduce attendance, trains will not call at Lewes, Falmer, Cooksbridge, Glynde and Southease from 5pm on 5 November until the start of service on 6 November. The last trains back from London Victoria to these stations will leave at 3.24pm and 3.54pm.
Safety concerns and restrictions
Emergency services say there are "serious concerns about overcrowding in the narrow streets of Lewes". Dozens of injuries are reported each year, many occurring on the procession routes and from bangers or other fireworks.
Road closures will be legally enforced from 4.45pm and include several key routes such as the A27 junction with the A277 at Ashcombe Roundabout, and the A275 Offham Road with B2116 Plumpton Road. Parking restrictions will begin at noon. Lewes residents are advised to get vehicles home before 4pm.
Group Manager Paul Coppard from East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said: "We ask people to support their local organised fireworks events instead of travelling to Lewes on the 5th of November."
Police enforcement
Chief Superintendent Graham Barnett said: "Sussex Police officers will be working closely with event organisers, stewarding teams and our partners to ensure Lewes Bonfire Night is a safe and enjoyable occasion for everyone." He added that officers will be on patrol and "enforcement action will be taken against anyone who puts others at risk or ignores event restrictions, including those bringing their own fireworks".
Emergency services said the event is not suitable for young children or dogs because of the crowds, town layout, and noise and smoke.
Anyone attending is asked to remain alert and report anything suspicious to stewards or police officers, or call 999 in an emergency.
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