A traditional British torch procession has been forced to scrap its parade through the town after prolonged dry conditions raised the concern of wildfires.
The Uckfield Bonfire and Carnival Society, which traces its roots back nearly two centuries, was due to take place on the first weekend of September but organisers announced on September 1 that flaming torches would not feature this year.
Uckfield, an East Sussex settlement with origins dating to 1220, has hosted the event for 199 years, making it one of the area’s most cherished traditions.
The decision followed a Government emergency announcement issued on August 14 warning of heightened fire risk after weeks of hot weather, which prompted cancellations and restrictions at events across the country.
Organisers revealed their insurers had refused to provide cover for the use of torches while the Government Emergency announcement remained in force.
“The Government Emergency announcement is still current and as such our insurers have confirmed that our use of torches in the procession will not be insured,” the society said.
The Friday evening fireworks display, traditionally the curtain-raiser for the weekend’s festivities, was also axed as part of efforts to reduce fire risk.
East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service provided guidance to the society as it weighed up its options in the weeks following the mid-August emergency declaration.
The society acknowledged =even recent wetter weather had not altered its obligation to follow official guidance and minimise the chance of starting fires.
Rather than the glow of traditional flames, participants were urged to illuminate the streets with battery-powered lanterns and fairy lights, adding: “Bring out your battery-powered lanterns and fairy lights and help us light the town up.”
The carnival itself was confirmed to proceed as planned, with the organisers emphasising that spectacular costumes from bonfire and carnival societies across Sussex would still be on display.
In a plea for understanding, the volunteer-run group asked the public to respect its decision. “We ask people to respect our decision and remember that we are all volunteers trying to do the right thing. Carnival is still on please come and support us all.”
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS
- Britons BANNED from forests over ‘risk of ignition’ following summer of wildfires
- Isis supporters in Britain handed chilling guide on how to ‘overwhelm’ emergency services with wildfire arson blitz
- UK summer named hottest on record after five heatwaves and raging wildfires
Fellow bonfire societies from across Sussex rallied behind Uckfield’s decision, with messages of solidarity flooding in online.
Burgess Hill Bonfire Society wrote: “Stepping back from a long-standing tradition is never easy, but prioritising the safety and wellbeing of the community is always the right call.
“Burgess Hill Bonfire Society stands with you in full support of your decision and wishes you a successful night.”
Rotherfield and Mark Cross Bonfire Society echoed that sentiment: “We fully support your decision. We stand by you. This is what Sussex bonfire is all about: putting the community first. No matter how hard it is.”
East Grinstead Community Bonfire also pledged its backing: “We understand your decision; we will stand with our bonfire brothers and sisters. See you Saturday.”
Following the weekend’s events, the society expressed deep gratitude for the turnout.
After having to cancel our fireworks and remove the lit torches from the parade, we have been overwhelmed with the support we received,” organisers said in a post-event statement.
They reflected on the challenge of overhauling a major community occasion at short notice, describing the adapted procession as “carefully planned and risk assessed” to preserve some tradition amid what they called “a sea of lights”, a first in Sussex bonfire history.
The society did, however, apologise for a road closure mishap at the northern end of town, where a barrier was mistakenly positioned on the wrong side of a key junction, causing difficulties for people attempting to reach Manor Park.
Organisers pledged the error would not be repeated.
Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter
