Story thread · 2 reports / 2 sources

Historic British procession through ancient town banned due to wildfire fears

gbnews.com · 8dShare

A traditional British torch procession has been forced to scrap its parade through the town after prolonged dry conditions raised the concern of wildfires. The Uckfield Bonfire and Carnival Society, which traces its roots back nearly two centuries, was due to take place on the first weekend of September but organisers announced on September 1 that flaming torches would not feature this year. Uckfield, an East Sussex settlement with origins dating to 1220, has hosted the event for 199 years, making it one of the area's most cherished traditions. The decision followed a Government emergency announcement issued on August 14 warning of heightened fire risk after weeks of hot weather, which prompted cancellations and restrictions at events across the country. TRENDING Stories Videos Your Say Organisers revealed their insurers had refused to provide cover for the use of torches while the Government Emergency announcement remained in force. "The Government Emergency announcement is still curr

First report: Traditional 200-year-old torchlit procession through ancient town is banned due to wildfire fears - with residents told to bring fairy lights instead — dailymail.co.uk, 8d