Ashdown Forest bosses issue fireworks warning as Bonfire Night celebrations continue across Sussex and Hampshire

Visitors to Ashdown Forest are being urged not to set off fireworks on the Forest as Bonfire Night celebrations continue across Sussex and Hampshire.

The Conservators of Ashdown Forest have issued the warning amid concerns about the dangers fireworks pose to wildlife, livestock and the surrounding countryside.

Officials say fireworks can cause significant distress to animals, while discarded fireworks and other pyrotechnics could potentially spark a wildfire.

The Forest's countryside team has previously discovered spent fireworks at several locations across Ashdown Forest, prompting renewed calls for visitors to act responsibly during the autumn celebrations.

Instead, the Conservators are encouraging people to enjoy traditional Bonfire Night festivities at organised displays, where appropriate safety arrangements are in place.

A number of organised fireworks displays and bonfire celebrations are scheduled to take place across West Sussex, East Sussex and Hampshire over the coming weeks.

In West Sussex, upcoming events include Fontwell on Saturday 31 October, Worthing's seafront fireworks on Thursday 5 November and West Dean Gardens near Chichester on Friday 6 November.

Petworth is preparing for its traditional bonfire celebrations on Saturday 7 November, while Heyshott's event takes place on Saturday 14 November.

Other West Sussex celebrations include Lindfield on Thursday 5 November and Cuckfield Park on Saturday 7 November.

In East Sussex, Isfield and Little Horsted will celebrate on Friday 30 October, followed by Ewhurst and Staplecross and Newick on Saturday 31 October.

The county's biggest traditional celebration takes place in Lewes on Thursday 5 November, with six bonfire societies holding processions and fireworks displays.

However, emergency services are advising people who do not live in Lewes to attend celebrations closer to home because of expected crowds and extensive travel restrictions.

Eastbourne's Saffrons fireworks display is scheduled for Friday 6 November, with fireworks expected at 7.30pm.

Further events include Battle, Chailey and Wadhurst on Saturday 7 November, Rye's provisional celebration on Saturday 14 November, and Barcombe and Robertsbridge on Saturday 21 November.

Across Hampshire, HMS Sultan in Gosport is holding its bonfire and fireworks night on Thursday 29 October.

Portsmouth's annual free fireworks display takes place on Southsea Common on Wednesday 4 November, with entertainment beginning at 4pm.

AFC Portchester and the Utilita Bowl at Hedge End are both hosting displays on Friday 6 November.

Further celebrations are planned for Bishop's Waltham, Rowlands Castle and Wickham on Saturday 7 November.

East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service has also encouraged residents to choose organised local celebrations rather than setting off fireworks or lighting bonfires in gardens and other private spaces, warning that fires can spread rapidly and unpredictably.

Organisers are advising people to check event arrangements, ticket requirements and possible weather-related changes before travelling.

The Conservators of Ashdown Forest hope visitors will respect the countryside and help protect its wildlife and livestock by keeping fireworks off the Forest throughout this year's celebrations.

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