Lewes Town Council extends thanks to the citizens of Lewes for a successful Jubilee weekend of celebrations.

The Mayor, Councillor Shirley-Anne Sains, was delighted to see the spirited community of the town coming together at the festivities. Opening the Platinum Jubilee celebrations she said, “this is a very special celebration from the united Bonfire Societies and sponsors, who have come together to make this event unique for Lewes. I feel honoured and proud to be here on this historic day, thank you from Lewes.”

On Thursday she was given a souvenir bone china mug from the Platinum Jubilee Partnership’s stall to promote the rare souvenir items that had been created to mark the event including mugs, badges and wine.

The main Platinum Jubilee event took place on Saturday 4 June, where the Mayor joined a procession from Lewes High Street to Malling Recreation Ground, transported by a steam engine. She opened the event before enjoying entertainment from local bands including Lewes Glynde and Beddingham Brass Band, and awarded the trophy for the tug of war. The Malling Community Centre housed the first aid during the event.

The event was organised by the united efforts of the seven Bonfire Societies, and Lewes Town Council paid for the spectacular firework display that concluded the celebrations. A storm in the evening provided an unexpected element of drama to the firework display, which had to be started a few minutes early due to safety concerns.

The treasurer of the Lewes Platinum Jubilee partnership Paul Mockford said that “it’s rare for the Bonfire Societies to work together, but when they do, it’s always a success, demonstrating a truly kindred spirit”.