TOURISTS and holidaymakers have been warned to stay away from the world’s most famous Bonfire Night this year amid safety fears.
The advice has been issued by a multi-agency group, including police, ahead of the popular annual celebration.
The group behind the Lewes Bonfire have called for the public not to attend unless they live locally, with trains axed and roads shut.
Dubbed the bonfire capital of the world, the town of Lewes holds the world-famous event each year.
As part of the torch-lit procession, the societies also push a giant effigy of a controversial figure through the town’s streets.
Last year, a depiction of Nigel Farage, holding a pint and a cigarette, was paraded through the streets.
The procession attracts thousands of visitors with transport, accommodation and even drinks difficult to come by on the big night.
The event begins with a torch-led procession, before bonfires are held across the town.
Firework displays are also conducted towards the end of the evening.
Ahead of the event on November 5, a multi-agency group has issued a series of advice for the public.
Transport restrictions
Transport restrictions are also being put in place to prevent visitors from attending the event.
In a statement, the group, which includes Sussex Police and the British Transport Police, said: “We ask that you do not attend Lewes Bonfire unless you are local because the crowds and narrow streets can present unique safety challenges.
“The decision to bring in travel restrictions has been made in the best interests of safety, by limiting the number of people attending.
“It is hoped that those who are inconvenienced will understand that and have time to make alternative arrangements where possible.
“It is recognised this will impact motorists and train passengers who are not planning to attend the event.”
Locals have been reacting to the news on Facebook.
One said: “Lewes is in lockdown for the bonfire, so you can’t get there.”
Another posted: “The more you tell someone not to do it the more they do.”
For the last several hundred years, Lewes Bonfire has taken place in the small Sussex town.
The event marks both Guy Fawkes Night and the memory of 17 martyrs from the town who were burnt at the stake for their religious beliefs.
There are thought to be more than 3,000 bonfire society members who take part in the procession each year, while up to 80,000 people have been known to watch the town’s parade.
The population of Lewes town is just more than 17,000.
A series of road closures will also be in place from 4.45pm on November 5, with residents advised to get any vehicles to their homes before 4pm to avoid disruption.
From 5pm that day, no trains will stop at Lewes, Falmer, Cooksbridge, Glynde and Southease.
The last trains back from London Victoria to these stations will leave at 3.24pm and 3.54pm.
These station closures will remain in place until the start of service on November 6.