Hailsham Bonfire Procession and Fireworks 2021

The Hailsham Bonfire celebrations returned to town with a bang last month, with the streets becoming host to societies from across Sussex.
After a year away due to the COVID pandemic, the famous event is being hailed a success as thousands of residents lined the streets to witness the procession organised by the Hailsham Bonfire Society and was attended by groups from Crowborough, South Heighton, Buxted, Uckfield, Waterloo, Isfield, Vines Cross, Rotherfield, Eastbourne, Heathfield, Littlehampton, bands Earthquake, Stix and The Pentacle Drummers.
The procession kicked off in style from the Vicarage Lane Car Park and weaved its way around town to arrive at the war memorial for a traditional prayer and minute’s silence. It was followed by a breathtaking explosion of firecrackers.
A large bonfire was then lit on the Western Road Recreation Ground later in the evening where thousands gathered to watch the ‘scaled back’ fireworks finale to mark the closure of the nights celebrations. Organisers say a record 7,000 people were in attendance.
Chairman of Hailsham Bonfire Society, Dave Chapman told Hailsham News: “The whole event cost the Society around £10,000 to pull off and 80% of that is raised by fundraising by the members and 20% by business sponsorship. In order for us to go again bigger and better next year, we need to look at more sponsorship deals. So, if any companies out there would like to help please get in contact with us.”
Mayor of Hailsham, Councillor Paul Holbrook told Hailsham News: “Every year, Hailsham gets together and its resident volunteers pitch in to put on a spectacular Guy Fawkes procession and grand firework display attended by many people from the town and surrounding areas.’
He added: “This year’s event was no exception and a great success all round. Thanks to everyone who came, to the Hailsham Bonfire Society and all volunteers for their hard work from the outset.”
Guy Fawkes night in most parts of Great Britain is traditionally commemorated at large public fireworks displays or small family bonfires, however, towns in Sussex and Kent hold these huge gala events with fires, parades and festivals.
The Hailsham event took a 16-year break due to funding and was recreated in 2005 by local man Guy Osborne, with support from Hailsham Lions. Since then, thousands has been raised for local charities - this year’s selected charity was Sunflowers, to support local mental health awareness and support and Hailsham Foodbank.
The total amount raised will be revealed at the Societies meeting this month. To see the whole procession and firework display on film, just visit HailshamNews.

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