They stressed that the carnival will still run as normal and urged people to come out and support them with ‘battery powered lanterns and fairy lights’.
The society said it took advice from East Sussex Fire and Rescue, the local authority Safety Advisory Group and their insurers and it was told that if they used torches they would not be insured.
In a statement on its Facebook page, Uckfield Bonfire and Carnival Society, said: ”Since the Government emergency announcement on 14 August we have been reviewing the situation.
"As of today the Government Emergency Announcement is still current and as such our insurers have confirmed that our use of torches in the procession will not be insured.
"Tonight we have made the decision to cancel the firework display and will not be using torches...to minimise the risk of harm to the town.”
Uckfield is the opening event in Sussex’s famous three-month bonfire calendar.
Crowborough Carnival and Bonfire is due to follow on September 12, and Sussex World has approached the society for an update.
Meanwhile on Sussex World’s Facebook pages, local people are debating the announcement and whether the Government guidance will impact the whole season.
Simon Foster commented:”If you can’t get insurance. Then all of them will be cancelled.”
Giles Smith said: “Health and safety gone mad, will have rained a tonne by the time for the display.”
However Keith Mewes described it as: “Sad but understandable,” and Cathy Baker backed Uckfield’s decision, saying: “We will still be there and processing - pioneers with fireless torches!”