About Burgess Hill Bonfire Society
Burgess Hill Bonfire Society is a volunteer-led organisation representing Burgess Hill, West Sussex, and keeping the town’s bonfire traditions alive through its events, fundraising and participation in the bonfire season.
The society brings together members of all ages who share an enthusiasm for Bonfire and for representing their town. Throughout the year, volunteers put in the work needed to support the society, raise funds and prepare for the busy autumn season.
For Burgess Hill, Bonfire is as much about the people behind the society as it is about the processions themselves. Members, families, supporters and volunteers all contribute to maintaining its presence and identity.
Burgess Hill Bonfire
Burgess Hill has its own history of bonfire celebrations, with organised events forming part of the town’s community calendar over the years.
The society’s celebrations bring members and supporters together for an evening centred around the traditional sights and sounds of Bonfire. Months of planning and fundraising go into making the event possible, with volunteers taking responsibility for everything from organisation and preparation to the practical work required on the day.
It provides an opportunity for Burgess Hill to celebrate its own bonfire identity while welcoming friends and visitors to the town.
On the Road
An important part of life in Burgess Hill Bonfire Society is representing the town at other celebrations during the season.
Members travel to events across Sussex, taking part alongside other societies and proudly carrying the Burgess Hill name with them.
For members, these away events are a major part of the Bonfire calendar. They provide an opportunity to take part in different celebrations, renew friendships and support the societies that, in turn, support Burgess Hill.
The season therefore extends far beyond one night in the town, with members often spending many autumn evenings on the road.
Community and Fundraising
Behind every appearance by Burgess Hill Bonfire Society is a considerable amount of voluntary work.
Fundraising takes place throughout the year and is essential to meeting the costs associated with the society’s activities. Members and supporters give their time to organise events and raise the money needed to keep the society active.
These events also provide an important social side to the society. They bring members together outside the bonfire season and give local people an opportunity to support Burgess Hill Bonfire even if they do not take part in processions themselves.
That combination of fundraising, volunteering and friendship is an important part of what keeps the society going from year to year.
Membership
Burgess Hill Bonfire Society welcomes people who want to become more involved.
Joining gives members the opportunity to represent Burgess Hill at bonfire celebrations, participate in society activities and help with fundraising and preparation throughout the year.
There is plenty to do away from the procession as well. Volunteer organisations depend on people willing to help behind the scenes, and every contribution plays a part in keeping the society active.
Bringing new members into the society is also essential for its long-term future, ensuring that its traditions and knowledge can continue to be passed on.
Supporting Burgess Hill Bonfire Society
The continued success of Burgess Hill Bonfire Society depends upon its volunteers, members and supporters.
Attending fundraising events, volunteering, becoming a member or supporting the society financially all help provide the resources needed to keep Burgess Hill represented during the bonfire season.
Most importantly, that support allows the society to remain part of the community it represents.
Through the commitment of the people behind it, Burgess Hill Bonfire Society continues to keep the town’s bonfire tradition alive and ensure that Burgess Hill has a proud presence throughout the season.