Public banned from bonfire procession over safety fears

As of this year, only members of the Battel Bonfire Boyes and invited visiting societies can join in the procession.

In the past members of the public were able to dress up and join the end of the procession.

But the Boyes have banned fancy-dress revellers from joining in this year, citing safety reasons.

Matt Southam, press and publicity officer for Battel Bonfire Boyes, said: "As organisers of the bonfire we have the responsibility of the safety of both the viewing public and the procession.

"As a requirement of our insurance we need to be in full control of those who are involved in the celebrations.

"We are introducing these measures to protect the future of the event."

He added: "If the actions of a member of the procession result in an injury, or worse the death, of a member of the viewing public then it is the society whocould bein the firing line of any subsequent inquiry or prosecution.

"We issue rules to each of the visiting societies and ask for them to provide two marshals to marshal with their ranks.

"We now need to ensure that we know who is walking amongst our ranks."

Battel Bonfire Boyes will be holding weekly meetings every Thursday in October, 8pm at Battle Club in the High Street, which will be open to anyone interested in joining the society.

Everyone taking part in this year's procession will be required to wear the Boyes 2010 membership badge.

Matt said: "This is not something new within Sussex bonfire.

"Many other societies insist that only members are involved in their event.

"In fact many societies have now closed their membership for this year and if you have not paid up you will not be able to take part.

"It may seem a hard line to take but this in an ancient tradition that we wish to see continue and we have to be pro-active to ensure its protection."