After last year’s nightmare weather, Cuckfield’s legendary bonfire and fireworks to music are back with an even bigger bang on Saturday 4th November.
Following months of intensive planning, members of the Bonfire Society are more determined than ever to ensure this complex event will be back to its best — a traditional family night out not to miss.
“There’s no doubt last year was a bit of a washout, which happens once in a while, even so we were still able to put the show on and raise a substantial donation for local good causes. We’re determined to make a big comeback this year,” said chair of the bonfire committee Michael Moore. “We have also tried hard to keep prices down as much as possible, despite the fact that the actual cost of the fireworks has gone up by 30% this year,” he added. After last year’s trial the overflow car park facility at nearby Warden Park school will be available again which aims to ease the peak time traffic issues that can be a challenge.
The village event has been held since 1987 and raised more than £155,000 for local good causes, including Holy Trinity and Woodlands Meed schools, along with the Kangaroos charity among many others. There will be a range of catering options on the site including stands run by 1st Cuckfield Scouts and Holy Trinity PTA.
The ceremonial lighting of the bonfire will be carried out by the next village Mayor, following the big election night, run by the Independent State of Cuckfield at the White Harte pub on October 20th.
It may yet lead to a second term for serving bonfire mayor Jem Lee, who is required to stand again and has raised yet more charity funds this year. As ever, the bonfire event depends on the support of local residents and parents who volunteer to help out. “We always face a challenge in finding enough marshals, so we would be really grateful to anyone who might lend us a hand. It’s alway fun whatever the weather does,” said Mike Moore.
The main event at Cuckfield Park, opens on Saturday 4th November, gates open at 5.30pm. At 6.45pm sharp, the bonfire is lit and the fireworks to music start at 7.30pm.
Parking is on a first come, first served basis, so do plan ahead and consider making use of the extra facility at Warden Park school.
Tickets are available online (www.trybooking.co.uk/BGTK) priced at £28 for a family or £10 for adults & £5 for children. For anyone able to volunteer as a marshal, please send an email to: cuckfieldbonfire@gmail.com.