Procession willlight up lanes at Staplecross

Bonfire Societies from all over Sussex, including, Battle, Rye, Robertsbridge and Hastings, are due to take part in what has often been described as ‘The Best Village Bonfire’.

It gets the reputation for the atmospheric torch-lit procession which winds its way along country roads, an amazing firework display and a family atmosphere.

The procession itself gets underway at 7.15pm but the atmosphere will be building up from 5pm when the traditional children’s fancy dress competition takes place in the village hall.

The procession follows a route to Cripps Corner, looping back to the village and ending up on the bonfire field at Cripps Corner Road.

The Ewhurst and Staplecross Society dress as eye-catching clowns in black and white face make-up.

John Lederer, from the Society, said: “The bonfire is built and everything is ready to go. We are just hoping for good weather now.

“It is lucky the storms this week have passed as that wind would have caused us real problems on the night.”

The honour of lighting the fire this year goes to Karen Hall, after she took part in an auction of promises. John said: “Karen lives in Sittingbourne but comes to the bonfire to support us every year.”

The event costs £7,000 to put on and all the money is raised by the Society working hard through the year,

Money raised from collecting buckets on the night goes to help local charities and good causes.

Past recipients include St Michael’s Hospice, Demelza House children’s hospice, the Air Ambulance and the village school and football club.

John Lederer said: “We have made 1,000 torches this year - up on last year.

“This is a wonderful evening where many society members wear their colourful costumes. Join us for a memorable evening.”