Bangers are a part of bonfire tradition

IF I may, through your paper, respond to Norma Pinkerton’s letter on Friday November 12.

I would like to thank you for acknowledging the hard work that the bonfire boyes do throughout the year and I am pleased you have, in the past, thoroughly enjoyed the bonfire celebrations.

I am sorry that you had cause for upset during our celebrations. We will certainly not excuse anyone setting off fireworks within the crowd area.

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We had our marshals remove a number of people from the firesite for setting fireworks off in this area and any members caught throwing fireworks into the crowd during the procession would be dealt with severely.

We do all within our power to stop members of the public setting off fireworks as they often throw them towards the procession which can be dangerous for those members walking.

However fireworks set off safely by members in our banger barrels within the procession is all part of why our event has become so popular.

As a local who has lived in the town you will be aware that Battle bonfire is a traditional event which combines noise, fire and fireworks to celebrate the discovery of the gunpowder plot.

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Battle is also very famous for its noisy celebrations and was once home to the infamous Battle Rouser.

These fireworks were made by members in their homes and hundreds would be discharged during the course of the evening.

The making of the rouser and other homemade fireworks was banned in 1951, however BBB have worked hard to maintain the traditions of bonfire and bangers set off safely within the procession is certainly nothing new.

I know many members and visitors will confirm that it was certainly a lot noisier during the 1980s and 1990s. It was something which as a child during the 80s attracted me to getting involved with bonfire.

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It is clear that the busiest part of Battle High Street on bonfire night is the area surrounding the Abbey Green where BBB ensure past members are remembered with fireworks and this is without doubt the loudest part of the night. The cheer after the Chinese crackers finished was testament to how many people enjoy this noisy tradition.

We advertise within our programme that the event is not suitable for young children or those with a nervous disposition; however I was happy for my nieces and nephew, who are all under six, to attend, knowing that Battle bonfire has a superb safety record and is, like you say, an event for all the family.

Our event is completely free to attend and we do our best to ensure everyone knows what the night involves.

Battle bonfire is clearly very different to carnival parades and simple firework displays seen in other areas and BBB will continue to work hard to keep this tradition alive. I apologise if I have missed your point completely.

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You are more than welcome to contact me direct by e-mailing [email protected] where I would be happy to provide my phone number so we can discuss any concerns you still have.

Matt Southam

Press and publicity officer

Battel Bonfire Boyes

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