Some 60,000 revellers took to the streets of Lewes for what is said to be the biggest bonfire celebration in the world, now in its 164th year.

Processions, bonfires and firework displays were held by six different societies – Lewes Borough, Commercial Square, Southover, Waterloo, South Street and Cliffe.

The main procession route ran from Western Road, through the Bottleneck along the High Street, past the War Memorial and down School Hill to Boots corner.

After the processions, the societies split up and headed to their own areas for bonfires and firework displays where they followed the tradition of burning effigies of controversial figures.

Grand processions through Lewes began at 8pm, though smaller processions started at around 5pm.

Sussex Police and partner agencies worked throughout the evening to ensure Lewes Bonfire celebrations were enjoyed by those who attended.

The town centre between Cliffe High Street and the castle was very busy between 8.30pm and 9.30pm and it is thought it was possibly slightly busier than last year.

Chief Superintendent Neil Honnor said: "This event takes months of preparation, planning and working with our fellow emergency services and partners, as well as the bonfire societies. 

"Our aim is always to provide a safe environment for both participants and spectators.

"Lewes was busy as it always is for bonfire night and I am very grateful to all those who worked hard during the evening to ensure that everyone had a safe and enjoyable evening.”

South East Coast Ambulance Service and St John Ambulance treated around 80 people for injuries, most relatively minor.

By 1.30am police had issued three dispersal orders and made a total of five arrests for drink driving, failing to comply with a dispersal order, possession of a knife and an assault. 

For a 14-page picture spread of the event see tomorrow's edition of The Argus.