Lewes Bonfire 2026: 11 arrests and 52 people treated by ambulance crews as 20,000 attend

Friday, 6 November 2026 at 08:58

By Philip Keeler

Credit: All images in this article are by Mike Flynn at Lewes Bonfire 2026

Around 20,000 people attended this year's Lewes Bonfire celebrations, with Sussex Police confirming 11 arrests and ambulance crews treating 52 people during the evening.

The annual event, held on Thursday 5 November, attracted thousands of spectators to Britain's best-known Bonfire Night celebrations.

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Sussex Police said officers made 11 arrests in connection with eight incidents throughout the evening.

The incidents included assault, drunk and disorderly behaviour, possession of an offensive weapon and criminal damage.

Officers also issued three dispersal orders during the celebrations.

Meanwhile, the ambulance service confirmed that 52 people received treatment during the event.

Of those, four were taken to hospital for further medical attention.

On social media, Lewes Police said: "We would like to thank everyone who has made it a successful event.

"It has taken months of planning and preparation by emergency services, local authorities and transport operators who have worked closely with bonfire societies and the community in Lewes."

Lewes Bonfire is one of the largest and most established Bonfire Night events in the country, with thousands of people gathering each year to watch processions, traditional celebrations and fireworks displays.

The event places significant demands on emergency services, with police, ambulance crews and other agencies working throughout the evening to manage the crowds and respond to incidents.

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