Heathfield to get its own bonfire society
12th June
Just over a week ago the Heathfield and District Bonfire Society (HDBS) held its inaugural meeting. It is hoped that this will be the start of a new Bonfire Society and a new focus for the community.
“I have been a Heathfield resident all of my live and wondered why Heathfield didn’t have one. The idea is to create a focus that will bring the town together and appeal to the community both young and old,” explained Founder Dave Shoebridge.
Although many other surrounding villages already have a Bonfire Society, Heathfield does not currently join in the Sussex tradition. Bonfire Societies were started up in the mid 1800s with Borough in Lewes being the first in 1853. Lewes still remains at the heart of the Bonfire season with seven active societies and the biggest most spectacular procession always on the 5th of November. Other Bonfire societies hold their events from September through to December. The traditions are rooted in the deaths of Protestant Martys and the foiled gunpowder plot of 1605 but didn’t come into being until much later.
The HDBS has a newly designed logo incorporating the flag of Heathfield. The society plans to march in other bonfire events and has already been invited to march in seven events this year. It is hoped that the first home event will take place in Autumn 2019 in Heathfield. The society is headed up by an experienced committee of local men and women who are dedicated to making this happen: Steve Thomas, Chairman; Tom Keep, Vice-Chair; David Shoebridge,Vice-Chair; Haling Keep,Secretary; Ken Brewster, Treasurer and Secretary Rachel Keep.
What the society needs now is members and sponsors to help build up the funds needed to finance the major costs of insurance, costumes, banners and event costs. Membership fees for adults are £10 and under 17s are £5. Members will be involved in all aspects of the society including: costume and mask making workshops; torch making; marching, building bonfires and event organising.
If you are interested in joining or becoming a sponsor you can email: heathfieldbonfire@gmail.com
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