The society has a proud history of putting on one of the largest events of its kind in the county. Selected members plan and work through the year to be able to put this awesome free event for the town. It takes alot of money and a lot of mony and a lot of effort to achieve this. And we need more members – We need YOU!
The society has a proud 72 year history of putting on one of the largest events of its kind in the county.
Our event attracts in the region of 19,000 spectators and is good for local businesses and the town during
what is otherwise a quiet time of the year.
For those of you who don’t know – our event always takes place on the last Saturday of October. It
comprises several parades, a huge bonfire and an awesome firework display. The main parade includes
the massed Sussex bonfire societies (many in bright costumes), bands, illuminated floats, walking groups
and often steam engines. Bonfire society members bear flaming torches – much to the amazement of
watching children!
All of this is free for the public, but we do ask for donations towards the significant costs – in excess of £35,000! Donations may be made into collectors buckets on the night or via bank transfer – see our website.
Why don’t we hold our celebration on 5th November – the anniversary of the foiling of the “Gunpowder
Plot”? As far as it is practical the various societies of Sussex hold their events on different Saturday nights
during the bonfire season – the advantage for each event is a more spectacular torchlight parade – and
the advantage for the members is a LOT more fun attending a variety of events from September through
to December across Sussex.
You would join a small group of volunteers who plan and fundraise to put on this amazing annual event.
As a member you may attend social events through the year such as skittles evenings with fish and chip
supper.
You may also join other members at “out-meetings” – other parades through the summer or bonfire events
through the autumn – so, if you love parades, bonfires and fireworks – you get to have a lot of fun! You will
make friends and gain a sense of pride in doing something worthwhile for your town.
Our society does not have a set costume, but is well known for its amazing Native American and Tudor
costumes. NB: Regarding racism / white-privilege.
Our society’s use of Native American First Nations costumes is not intended to cause upset nor insult. We
feel nothing but respect for Native Americans. That is the spirit with which we wear the costume. We ask
members to not darken their skin, but the committee feels that the use of “war paint” is a part of the
costume.
Or you may wish to be a cowboy or girl – this is a relatively easy way to get involved in the fun of a
parade! Native American costumes can start simple and be embellished – sometimes over many years!
Tudor costumes again can be made or bought – Linda Oliver may be able to help.
Subs are payable to Sarah Roberts, Tanya Humphrey or Tyndall Jones at the time of joining and then on 1st Jan
annually. Please complete a membership form & include your name, address, email address (if you have
one) and a contact phone number. Subs may be paid by cash or by bank transfer.
The minimum amount due is £10.00 for adults and £5.00 for juniors (under 18 at the time of paying).
Please consider adding a donation also.
If possible please would you pay your subscriptions by Bank Transfer –
Account number 01093488
Sort code 30 – 95 – 09
Please write “SUBS” and your name on the transfer. If also making a donation please write SUBS Don (or
similar) plus your name. To ensure our membership database is kept up to date please email to
membership@littlehamptonbonfiresociety.co.uk & treasurer@littlehamptonbonfiresociety.co.uk. This way
Tanya and Sarah may liaise with each other and document donations and SUBs paid accurately.
