IT WAS all alight on the night as a bonfire society enjoyed its 45th year of fireworks and torchlit processions.

The Burgess Hill Bonfire Society ignited the county’s bonfire season with a well-appreciated event on Saturday night.

More than 6,000 spectators were estimated to have lined the streets on Saturday night with hopes to “smash” last year’s fundraising total of £2,400.

The money, which was being counted yesterday, will go to Plumpton College-based Hope in the Valley Riding for the Disabled, Burgess Hill Food Bank, The Transplant Games and Chestnut Tree House children’s hospice.

About 500 participants from the town’s bonfire societies dressed as Indian chiefs, Boer War soldiers and masked dandies during two processions.

The first from Cyprus Road to Silverdale Road was followed by a second Grand Procession from Silverdale Road to the fire site of Fairfield Recreation Ground.

The society raised £8,000 to allow them to host the event free of charge.

Society member Nick Wright said the event was normally blessed with fine weather and support being so early in the calendar.

He said: “It certainly was successful, it was the perfect weather and I am really pleased with how it went.

“It really is one of the biggest community events we have in Burgess Hill – it’s the event that helps the community bond together.

“It’s a great spectacle for the kids and that is one of the main motivations for doing it.”

Spectator Dave Stone wrote on Facebook: “In my opinion, the best procession and fireworks for many years, well done to all involved.”

Elsewhere Shoreham Bonfire Society will hold celebrations on West Beach on Saturday November 8, the Eastbourne Bonfire Parade is on Saturday October 4 and the famous Lewes Bonfire will be held on the Glorious fifth itself on Wednesday November 5.

In Brighton and Hove, The Family Fire Spectacular will be in Nevill Road, Hove, on Saturday November 8, while PixelPyros free digital fireworks are at The Corn Exchange on Monday November 11.

For more information on the society visit www.burgesshillbonfiresociety.co.uk