Ninfield’s burning passion

The procession was led by the torchlit Ninfield Banner, with the children’s section, Ninfield Drummers and other society members behind.

Following them, in various costumes were members of Battel Bonfire Boyes, Ewhurst and Staplecross, Robertsbridge, Hawkhurst, Northiam, Rye, Robin Hood at Icklesham, Eastbourne,

Hastings and the Section 5 Drummers, with Ninfield Scouts bringing up the rear.

The procession wound it’s way through the village and onto the recreation ground and around the firesite, with the traditional chant of ‘Remember, Remember the Fifth of November’ recited before the lighting of the fire by John Hunnisett.

Now in his mid nineties John, with his wife Carol, have been members of many Sussex Bonfire Societies all their lives, and still attend many events in full costume.

After the fire had died down the fireworks started. They filled the sky with lights, colour and bangs, prompting a stream of oohs and aahs from the large crowd watching.

Just when everyone thought it had ended, the effigy of Guy Fawkes sprung into life with more fireworks erupting from him in a spectacular fashion.

A spectacular and sparkling finale led to deafening cheers and applause.

One villager, Kevin Regan, said of the evening: “I thought the bonfire procession was a real credit to the village and all the bonfire society members.

“I can’t recall a more pleasant group of people, good natured, friendly and simply having a good time without being a nuisance.

“Much of that has to be down to an awful lot of pre planning and it definitely made all the effort worthwhile. Even the weather was kind, compared to what we endured last week.

“I would like show my appreciation in the Observer, it’s so nice to have a great atmosphere that isn’t spoilt by one foolish person.

“All credit to the other societies, please pass my thanks to them as well.

“The clear up was also well done, and I do hope it raised an awful lot of money so we can do even better next year.”

Society secretary Carol Holland said: “Ninfield Bonfire Society would like to thank all of the societies for attending and so helping to make for a spectacular evening.

“We would like to thank the local business’s who support us throughout the year, Meridian Marquees, Parker and Son, Haffenden Roofing, Elm Architectural Services, BBScene, Astbury Windows, Bluebell Kitchens, Glen Elphick Paving, Ninfield Village Stores, Hope Cottage Farm Shop, WaspGoGo, Gary Wadmore Electrician, JM Skip Hire, Littlewoods Fencing and Skinners Sheds.

“Also special thanks must go the Ian and Cathy at the Blacksmith’s Inn for supporting this and so many of the events in the village, their help and support is invaluable.

“We would also like to thank all of the members of the public who support our events throughout the year and who attended on Saturday and gave generously in our charity buckets.

“ Money raised on the night will be shared between St John’s Ambulance, St Michael’s Hospice and Sparkes Pavilion, Ninfield rebuilding fund.

“Our next fundraising event, our Christmas Fayre, will be on December 6 at Ninfield Memorial Hall.

“Santa will travel by pony and trap to the event – so if you enjoy bonfire night please come and help us get the fund raising for next year off to a great start!

“You’ll find lots of information, news and photos at www.ninfieldbonfire.co.uk”