Public urged not to travel to Lewes for Bonfire celebrations

People who live outside Lewes are being urged not to travel to the town for this year’s Bonfire celebrations, with public safety agencies warning that higher attendance is expected.

A joint statement has been issued by East Sussex County Council, East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, East Sussex Highways, Southern Railway, Brighton & Hove Buses, Lewes District Council, South East Coast Ambulance Service, Sussex Police and St John Ambulance.

The organisations are asking people from outside Lewes to support bonfire celebrations closer to home instead.

With 5 November falling on a Thursday this year, organisers and emergency services say they are anticipating higher levels of attendance.

They say the combination of large crowds, significant amounts of fireworks and Lewes’s narrow streets creates a particular challenge for those responsible for public safety.

Officials have also warned that the event is not considered suitable for children, young families or dogs because of the crowds, noise and smoke.

As in previous years, travel restrictions will be introduced in an attempt to reduce the number of people travelling into the town.

Road closures will begin from 4.45pm on Thursday 5 November at a number of routes into Lewes, including the A27 at the Ashcombe Roundabout, the A275 at Offham Road and the A26 at Malling Street.

Lewes residents are being advised to have their vehicles back in the town before 4pm, while visitors are being asked not to drive into Lewes.

There will also be major changes to rail services.

Trains are not expected to stop at Lewes, Falmer, Cooksbridge, Glynde or Southease from 5pm on 5 November until services begin the following morning.

People commuting back from London are being advised that the final Victoria services serving affected stations will leave earlier than usual.

The last train from Lewes to Brighton is expected to leave at 4.44pm, while the final service to London Victoria is due at 4.55pm.

The final Lewes service towards Ore is scheduled for 4.59pm, with the last train to Seaford expected at 5.02pm.

Passengers are being advised to check their journey before travelling, as some stations will see their final services depart even earlier.

Sussex Police says officers will work alongside partner organisations throughout the event to maintain order, prevent crime and respond to incidents.

People attending are being asked to report suspicious activity to stewards or police officers, and to call 999 in an emergency.

St John Ambulance volunteers will also be providing first aid during the celebrations.

The charity is advising people not to pick up spent fireworks or torches and to familiarise themselves with basic first aid for burns.

People who do not live in Lewes are instead being encouraged to attend organised fireworks and bonfire events in their own communities.

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