Thousands enjoy bonfire magic
THOUSANDS enjoyed Rye's bonfire spectacular on Saturday night in what the Bonfire Society claims was one of the best events for many years.
Spectators packed into the town and lined the entire route from Tilling Green to the fire site on the Salts to watch a long line of flaming torches, decorated floats and colourful costumes.
Bonfire societies from across the county took part in the procession with a strong contingent from Battle, Hastings, Robertsbridge and Staplecross.
Also turning heads was Rye's fire-breathing dragon and the burning boat, from which the society takes its badge.
A charity street collection is expected to reach near the 4,000 mark, matching a previous best-ever collection.
"It was a fantastic night," said Rye Bonfire Society chairman John Izod. "One of the best I can remember. It was a clear night which made it perfect for the fireworks."
Police said there were no problems during a good-natured evening. The ambulance service also reported a quiet evening.
They attended two 11-year-olds, one who had suffered an asthma attack but did not require hospital treatment and another who sustained a minor cut on her knee after being hit by a firework. She did not require hospital treatment.
A huge bonfire was constructed in the shape of a boat to mark Rye's maritime heritage and the bi-centenary of Trafalgar.
It was painted with the insignia RX 400 to mark the 400th anniversary of the gunpowder plot. The bonfire also had an eight-foot high effigy of Guy Fawkes, with fireworks attached.
This year also saw one of the most bizarre incarnations of Rye Fawkes. Usually a celebrity who lights the fire, this time it was a man dressed as a giant owl as a nod toward the bird-flu scare.
John Izod praised the hard work involved in staging the event: "Ian Foster did a brilliant job with the fireworks and I have to thank the council contractors Serco for their work in clearing up the next day. You would not have known there had been a bonfire in Rye by 10am on Sunday."
He added: "Thanks are sincerely due to the police, ambulance and fire services and Raynet Communications, pyrotechnicians and marshals.
"The crowd was, as ever, good natured and appreciative. It is a real pleasure to keep bringing this unique entertainment alive.
"Thank you to our sponsors and advertisers, hosts Rye Lodge and Royal British Legion and finally to the great team of bonfire boys and ladies who work so hard and so well."
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Weather for St Leonards-on-Sea
Friday 10 February 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: -7 C to 1 C
Wind Speed: 9 mph
Wind direction: East
Tomorrow
Sunny
Temperature: -5 C to 0 C
Wind Speed: 8 mph
Wind direction: North east
