It is probably the most talked about Bonfire Night in the country with fans travelling for miles to join in the celebrations.

But this year, thousands could be left disappointed as Lewes Bonfire Safety Group has warned people to stay away from their town.

Those who do not live in Lewes are being warned to steer clear of the famous November 5 event on its 400th anniversary.

Parents are being told the event will be "confusing and frightening" for children and toddlers in pushchairs will be "vulnerable to injury".

A spokesman for the Lewes Bonfire Safety Group said: "The event is a Lewes tradition going back many years and allows the people of the town to celebrate the ancient tradition of bonfire.

"Roads in the town are closed meaning that there are no parking facilities. Those using public transport are likely to find that it is very crowded and that they may have to queue for long periods to get to Lewes and later, to get home.

"This can be an unpleasant experience particularly when it is cold or raining, which is likely in November.

"Lewes Bonfire is a particularly unsuitable event for young children who are unlikely to get a view of the celebrations and who may find the event confusing and frightening.

"Also children in pushchairs and buggies are vulnerable to injury due to the density of the crowds.

"The members of the Group work closely together throughout the year to minimise risk and to ensure the safety of the public.

"We know from many years' experience that the larger the crowd, the more uncomfortable it can become for spectators. We therefore urge people from outside the Lewes area to celebrate in their own area and to avoid the town on November 5."

Lewes Bonfire Council, which represents the town's six Bonfire Societies, supported by Sussex Police and Lewes District Council, make up the Bonfire Safety Group.

But people who live in Sussex feel they should not miss out on the tradition which dates back to the 16th Century.

Housewife and mother-of-three Kate Blaymire, 42, of Hampstead Road, Brighton, said: "I have children aged three, five and 13 and I have taken them to Lewes for the fireworks before. It felt completely safe.

"I know the transport can be difficult but if you plan sensibly it is fine. Yes there is a big crowd waiting to get on the train at the end of the night but it is all very good natured and you get home quite easily.

"They definitely shouldn't ticket the event because it would spoil the whole thing, it wouldn't be the same anymore.

"It is a fantastic spectacle and if my children are born here I want them to see it."

A Sussex Police spokeswoman added: "It's for the safety of the public that we have to restrict numbers. We ask this of people every year."

A spokeswoman for Lewes District Council said: "Lewes District Council is a member of the Lewes Bonfire Safety Group.

"The police advise on matters of safety and because Bonfire Night this year falls on a Saturday night, the message to people from outside the Lewes area to avoid the town on November 5 is a sensible one."