Stay Local And Don't Travel To Lewes Bonfire Celebrations Say Emergency Services

With Lewes Bonfire Night just days away on November 5th, emergency services and Bonfire Societies are reminding the public not to travel to the event. There will be visible and substantial police presence throughout the event.

East Sussex Fire and Rescue are asking everyone to support their local organised fireworks events instead

There'll be road closures and parking restrictions,to help the event pass safely, by managing the number of people attending.

To further reduce the number attending, trains will not call at Lewes, Falmer, Cooksbridge, Glynde and Southease from 17:00 on Thursday 5th November, until the start of service on Friday 6th November 2025.

Commuters are warned the last trains back from London Victoria to these stations will leave at 3.24pm and 3.54pm

Emergency services, local authorities and transport operators have been planning for the celebrations for many months.

There remain serious concerns about overcrowding in the narrow streets of Lewes. Every year, dozens of injuries are reported, many being on the procession routes and by bangers or other fireworks.

Group Manager Paul Coppard, East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said:

“We ask people to support their local organised fireworks events instead of travelling to Lewes on the 5^th November.

“We have been working hard with the organisers and our partners to put plans in place to ensure we keep our community safe across East Sussex.

“We’d also like to remind everyone to follow bonfire safety advice and the Fireworks Code.

“Please stay safe, follow official advice and do not put yourself or others at unnecessary risk”

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. 

“Officers will be on patrol and any criminality and anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated. Enforcement action will be taken against anyone who puts others at risk or ignores event restrictions, including those bringing their own fireworks. Our priority is to keep everyone safe and ensure the night runs smoothly.

“Anyone who sees suspicious behaviour or something that doesn’t seem right should report it to stewards, officers on patrol, or call 999 in an emergency.”

Everyone attending the event is asked to remain alert and report anything suspicious or unusual to a steward or police officer. If something doesn't feel right, trust your instincts and report it.

Because of the number of people, layout of the town, noise and smoke the event is not suitable for young children or dogs.