Town prepares for the Fifth

LEWES will be heaving on Tuesday for the country's biggest bonfire carnival. Who knows how many thousands of people will wriggle their way into the town to see five bonfire societies celebrate the foiling of the Gunpowder Plot!

For sheer colour, noise and spectacle, bonfire night in Lewes is unique.

The pageant is the highlight of the year for the 2,500 or so society members in Lewes who spend months preparing for the grand occasion.

Despite the huge effort involved and the great costs expended, spectators will be able to enjoy all the street fun without cost.

All that is asked of them is that they enjoy themselves, behave responsibly and fill the charity collection buckets that pass by.

Regular visitors will take the crush of the crowds, the acrid smell and the general melee and confusion in their stride.

But first-time visitors should brace themselves for human congestion along the prime procession routes and limited mobility. If you need the loo, don't leave it to the last minute before looking for one!

The crowds start trickling in at about 4pm. The wise ones arrive by train and other public transport. Those who come by car could find themselves locked in the town until well after midnight unless they make use of the specially prepared car parks at County Hall to the west and Tesco to the east.

Having arrived, bear in mind that few pubs will be open although there will be no lack of refreshment on sale at various outlets.

The problem as the evening progresses is in getting about. The lower High Street, from the war memorial to the Cliffe precinct, is exceptionally packed.

The fun starts with children's procesion and tar barrel runs at about 5.30pm. From that point, there will be something happening somewhere at virtually every moment. Even after the superb firework displays (don't forget you need tickets to enter some sites) there will be more processions and more spectacle.

It is important to think in safety terms: avoid overcrowding (easier said that done), keep your eye on your children, don't play with fireworks, don't pick up torches and don't bring pets.

In an emergency, don't panic, and follow police instructions. There are safety zones in the town.