Thousands of people descended into Hastings to take part in its annual bonfire night celebrations.

The town centre and seafront were lined with people of all ages who came to enjoy the loud and lively event on Saturday, October 18.

A procession of the different bonfire societies of Sussex began the event, followed by a bonfire and a fireworks display on the seafront.

Jacquie McGovern, 59, a member of Hastings Borough Bonfire Society, said, “It’s a wonderful community, Hastings loves the bonfire. You get an adrenaline buzz.”

Each bonfire society was uniquely dressed in costume as they paraded through the town as pirates, monks and smugglers to the sound of drums and firework bangs.

Amy Turner, 23, of Carisbrooke Road, St Leonards, said, “The parade was vibrant and lively. I’ll definitely come again next year.

“The fireworks were spectacular and the atmosphere was great.”

Each year Hastings Borough Bonfire Society traditionally has an effigy which represents a local issue or protest.

This year the effigy was a No Service bus, to support a campaign to save bus routes in the area.

Nick Lynas, chairman of Hastings Borough Bonfire Society, said, “HBBS has always thought that our effigies are special and that they are a true reflection of local peoples thoughts.“

The bonfire night is held each year in Hastings on the Saturday closest to the anniversary of 1066.