CARNIVAL IS BACK

The fun starts tonight (Friday) with a spectacular free firework display at Holy Cross school field at 8.30pm and the Stevens carnival funfair on the Luxford Field from 6.30pm.

Society secretary Carol Watts-Arnold said: 'It has been blood, sweat and tears to get the bonfire organised this year, but it will be well worth it.

'It will be an amazing night as long as we are not left at the mercy of the only thing we cannot organise '“ the weather.'

Tomorrow (Saturday) the fancy dress street collection marks the start of the festivities, followed by the children's grand procession at 2pm.

The grand torchlight procession begins from Grange Road at 7.30pm.

This year's procession welcomes 26 bonfire societies from all over Sussex and five bands, including Uckfield's Holy Cross Scout Band and Heathfield Silver Band.

Also keeping the crowds entertained will be five dance groups and majorettes, including Debs Dancers and the Instep Majorettes.

Special guest star Eugene Sully from Big Brother will be on Uckfield FM's carnival float.

Uckfield FM's head of programming and music, Gary King, said: 'Subject to confirmation, we are looking forward to welcoming Eugene back for this year's celebrations.'