Lewes celebrates American independence and the town's radical former resident Thomas Paine

Organised by Lewes Climate Hub in partnership with Thomas Paine: Legacy, the Festival of Democracy began with a colourful parade led by an 8ft walking skeleton puppet representing ‘Tom Paine’s Bones’ created by artist Polyp.

The procession featured the Town Crier, the Don’t Lose Hope Band, musicians, banners and residents dressed as figures from across the history of democracy, including Ancient Greeks, the Barons of Runnymede, French and American revolutionaries, Suffragettes and Civil Rights campaigners. The parade made its way through Lewes before arriving at the Gun Garden in Lewes Castle, where visitors enjoyed an afternoon of music, storytelling, speeches, creative activities and refreshments. Speeches given included by MP James MacCleary, and Vanessa Rowlands, Chair of the South Downs National Park.

Young musicians from Starfish, the local music charity, performed during the afternoon and announced the winner of their original "Song of Freedom" competition, with local singer-songwriter Nell Howe receiving first prize. The festival marks the beginning of a year of events and conversations exploring democracy in Lewes, encouraging local people to help shape ideas for the town’s future.

Jane Carpenter, Lewes Climate Hub, said: "It was wonderful to see so many people come together in such a positive and creative way.

“Democracy belongs to all of us, and this festival showed how art, music, history and community can bring people together to celebrate the ideas that connect us. We hope it’s the start of many more conversations across Lewes over the coming year.”

Leanne O’Boyle, Thomas Paine: Legacy, said: “Thomas Paine believed that ordinary people had the power to change the world. Marking the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence here in Lewes was a fitting way to celebrate his extraordinary legacy and to remind ourselves that democracy is something each generation must continue to nurture.”

Dinah Morgan of Lewes Climate Hub added: “The response has been tremendous. We’re looking forward to building on the momentum of the festival through a programme of events over the coming year, inviting people from across Lewes to explore the future of democracy in our community.”

“We’d also very much like to thank the team at Lewes Castle and Natasha Williams, Director of Lewes Properties for Sussex Past, for supporting the festival”.