Nevill Juvenile Bonfire Society: Young Tradition and the Spirit of Bonfire

Among Lewes’s bonfire societies, Nevill Juvenile Bonfire Society holds a unique place. Formed in 1967 on the Nevill Estate, the Society was created with younger generations at its heart and has grown from a small neighbourhood celebration into an established part of Lewes Bonfire tradition.

The Society’s beginnings were suitably spontaneous. In 1967, Philip Amey and Peter Earl had both seen their own bonfires destroyed before the Fifth of November. Rather than give up, they joined forces, built one large bonfire, made 50 torches and invited around 40 friends to take part in a procession from Highdown Road to the allotments beside the Motor Road. Fireworks and a small windmill set piece completed the evening — and Nevill Juvenile Bonfire Society was born.

The following year saw 70 members, seven processions and a band take to the streets of the Nevill Estate. From those modest beginnings the Society grew rapidly, developing the processions, costumes, tableaux and fireworks that have become such an important part of its identity.

Nevill’s green-and-white striped guernseys are a familiar sight in Lewes, while its Pioneer costumes bring colour and history to the procession. Valencians are particularly associated with the Society, alongside other costumes including Medieval and British Military dress. Its motto, “We Dare”, neatly captures the enthusiasm and independence that have characterised the Society since its earliest days.

Unlike the six Lewes societies that hold their main celebrations on the Fifth, Nevill traditionally holds its own Bonfire Night earlier in the autumn. The streets of the Nevill Estate fill with torches, costumes, bands and visiting societies before the procession makes its way towards the firesite at Landport Bottom for the bonfire and firework display.

But Nevill Juvenile is about more than one night. Its distinctive role is to introduce younger generations to Bonfire and give them the opportunity to take part in the traditions of Lewes from an early age. More than half a century after a handful of friends lit those first 50 torches, the Society remains firmly rooted in its community, keeping Bonfire alive by passing its traditions from one generation to the next.