The striped guernseys worn by Richard and his daughter, Amber, hark back to the days when Bonfire Boys and Girls disguised themselves as smugglers and smeared soot over their faces to avoid recognition. Back then, before the Bonfire societies were formed and the celebrations became more organised, the event was more of a riot or social protest, with fires lit in the street, and on one notable occasion, the local magistrate thrown into the river from Cliffe Bridge. While rioting is a thing of the past, the night still has a whiff of anarchy and pagan ritual. It also echoes Lewes’ long history of protest and dissent – our county motto is, after all, “Sussex Wun’t be Druv”.
As a youngster, Richard had been in the Boys Brigade, and a marching band, so it naturally followed that when he moved to Lewes he would carry on marching – but this time with one of the seven Lewes Societies. He remembers his first experience of Bonfire: “I was blown away by how bizarre it was!". Amber first took part when she was just 3. For so many Lewes children the noise, smoke and pandemonium feel almost normal.
Another attraction for Richard is that Bonfire is very much a community event, notwithstanding the friendly rivalries between societies. “If you’re local, you just get involved”.
There are so many elements that have influenced the unique way Bonfire is celebrated in Sussex, and most spectacularly in Lewes. As well as the commemoration of the Gunpowder Plot, Richard cites the seventeen protestant martyrs, burned during Mary I’s reign outside the Star Inn, now Lewes Town Hall, and commemorated by the seventeen burning crosses carried by each Society. From the 20th century, the Societies’ acts of remembrance at the War Memorial, honouring the fallen of the two World Wars, became a significant and moving part of the evening. The burning of fabulously creative tableaux, known as “enemies of Bonfire”, can be seen as controversial, but their satirical humour is sometimes misinterpreted by those unfamiliar with the traditions.
Richard points out that although the celebrations can appear chaotic to the casual observer, they are in fact very well managed. Ear defenders are worn, marshals are appointed to monitor all aspects of the processions and firesite activity, and the Police, Fire and Ambulance services work closely with the societies and Bonfire Council to ensure a safe and enjoyable evening for all.
Image: Carlotta Luke
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A typical day for Meizi begins being woken by birdsong in her garden, beside the beautiful South Downs.
“During the day, I’ll often take a stroll into town, and grab a cup of coffee and a piece of cake from my favourite bakery, Flint Owl; where I used to work.”
“I’ve lived in Lewes for most of my life. My parents adopted me from China and they brought me here with my sister and family. The mesmerising scenery of the South Downs makes Lewes such a special place to live - it’s beautiful and real. I love popping into the unique independent shops and playing basketball at our freshly remade basketball court… And of course I can’t forget Lewes Castle - I would definitely recommend a visit if you haven’t been.”
And if all that activity gives you an appetite? “Food-wise, I would definitely recommend booking a table at Bills in Lewes Town. It’s the first ever Bills to open and Bill himself pops in there now and then to say hello”.
What makes Meizi happy? “I am happiest doing what I love the most which is playing basketball and enjoying the sunshine and nature!”
Image: Alun Callender
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Jacob Folio-Todd, Chef and Researcher
"In normal times, there is plenty of variation to my days” explains Jacob Folio-Todd; owner of the Feature Kitchen, a weekend takeaway delivery service which works with different chefs to produce an exciting variety of cuisines delivered to Lewes, Brighton and the surrounding areas.
When Jacob’s not working on the Feature Kitchen, he can usually be found at the University of Sussex working as a researcher on the Modern Energy Cooking Services project, and sharing childcare with his partner Harriet, who runs homewares store Closet & Botts.
Where do you like to go in Lewes? "The Grange - I think it's of world class quality. UNESCO Heritage should list it. Usually, I’m also a regular at Pestle & Mortar, Caccia & Tails, Irma’s Cafe & Bistro, Limetree Kitchen, Ground, The Needlemakers, Flint Owl and the local pubs!”
The Feature Kitchen are currently delivering. Find out more at www.thefeaturekitchen.co.uk, on Facebook and Instagram.
Image: Carlotta Luke
There are no typical days for Sophie Cameron. After a total career change ten years ago (previously, Sophie ran an artist network in London), Sophie now runs company Simon Scott Landscaping with her husband. “It’s always a thrill to see an outside space change beyond recognition, transforming people’s lives, built with beautiful materials and filled will stunning planting. I also occasionally have to get into an awkward space and hold a tape measure as shown here in my picture by the lovely Carlotta!”
Sophie also works with local charity Patina as their Arts Coordinator. Patina is a charity providing opportunities for children and young people in the Lewes District to experience working with local artists. The Patina ‘Moving On’ arts project culminates in a huge carnival of year 6 primary school children from the Lewes district parading through Lewes town. “Patina was one of the first things I saw when moving to Lewes 10 years ago - with my 3 year old and newborn in arms. It’s an incredibly emotional occasion and a wonderful reclaiming of the streets by children who are just at the end of their primary school life and about to embark on new learning adventures”
And what brought Sophie to Lewes? “Simon and I were given a book which mapped out walks within only an hour train ride from London. One of the walks took us on the train to Lewes and then onto Southease. We fell in love with the countryside and kept coming back - eventually for good! I’ve found Lewes to be an incredibly welcoming and generous place and I feel very lucky to have a wonderful community of friends and inspiring people around me. I am also part of Lewes Women in Business which has been a fantastic and supportive network for me and all the work I do”
And other Lewes highlights? “Many - but in particular the incredible work Lewes FC are doing with their #EqualityFC campaign - Lewes are the only club who have equal playing budgets for women and men. We need the world to take note!”
Image: Carlotta Luke
Silvia MacRae Brown
For Silvia MacRae-Brown, the South Downs and sea of East Sussex have been always been a home to come back to. After studying in Florence and London, Silvia moved back to Lewes permanently 23 years ago to set up the Sculpture in Clay course at The University of Sussex.
For many years, Silvia focused on making portrait busts (her portrait of the composer Sir John Tavener won the Society of Portrait Sculptors prize in 2005), but now enjoys making simplified, peaceful “figures” for gardens. “I love making sculpture. I gradually found that it was the best way to communicate my ideas and feelings”
A typical day for Silvia begins gently with yoga and communing in the garden (tended by partner Mark Divall, Charleston’s gardener for many years) followed by a day of teaching or working in her studio.
When not working, Silvia is happiest walking on the South Downs or enjoying Lewes’ ancient streets, independent shops and, in the summer, tea and cake in Southover Gardens.
Sylvia runs Life Drawing Days in the beautifully converted Hay Barn at Charleston on the first Tuesday of every month from 10am-4pm where professional artists and amateurs alike are welcome.
Image: Carlotta Luke
Elisa Furci
“Elevating fast food is what excites me - fast food doesn’t have to be rubbish!”
If anyone truly lives by their words, it’s Elisa Furci, founder of Lewes café and deli Caccia and Tails. A typical day starts at 7am. A cup of Backyard Coffee in hand for her and Greg (C&T’s head chef), then the Caccia ovens are fired up whilst tray after tray of mouthwatering focaccia is put is baked after being finished with sea salt and Italian olive oil (produced in Puglio by fellow Lewesian, Savino).
“When I realised that we could learn to make the focaccia I fell in love with as a child in Genova and bring it to England, I felt like it was an obligation to do so. To be able to have it any day of the week still seems like a luxury.”
Elisa’s mother, ex-New Yorker Danielle, arrives at 8.30am laden with baked cheesecake and those legendary Caccia and Tails doughnuts. Elisa explains, with a smile: “At this point, Mum invariably ends up having some sort of political debate with anyone who is willing to listen!”. These plump sugary pillows have quickly achieved cult status in Lewes, so it's best to arrive at when they are ready at 11am for a chance to bag one (or three).
Keep an eye for Octoberfeast events which Elisa runs with Chloe Edwards (see below) and Jacob Todd (Feature Kitchen).
Elisa agrees that Lewes is a very special place. “I had the most amazing childhood here. I love walking down the street and seeing people I’ve known for almost 40 years. I know if I am ever feeling lonely, I can walk out onto the street and bump into a gazillion people. Lewes really has something for everyone.”
Image: Carlotta Luke
Sharon Makgill
Sharon’s mantra is “live life in colour!”
After ten years of fashion styling for celebrities and magazines, she left London for Lewes in 2005, attracted by its creativity, community, wealth of independent shops, and proximity to beautiful countryside. She realised her ambition of opening her own playful and colourful shop, Popsicle, in 2014.
Popsicle is a design-led fashion and gift shop in the Needlemaker’s, reflecting Sharon’s passion for colour, and its power to lift the soul and put a smile on the face.
When not in her shop, she can be found enjoying the South Downs with friends, picking up off-beat bargains in Lewes’ flea markets, or on buying trips to Marrakech.
Another pleasure is the colourful gardens of Southover Grange: “It’s been my garden for the past 14 years. I get such joy each year from its unique planting - the dahlia beds rock my world!!”
Image: Carlotta Luke
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Ben first came to the area in 1986 to work at the Lewes Forge, thus continuing a tradition of blacksmithing on the site going back some 300 years. He soon became a familiar sight around town, with his black hair, and clothes dirty and marked from the forge. In turn, he quickly grew to love Lewes’ open minded, creative atmosphere, and cast of colourful characters.
Although never directly involved in Bonfire, the affinity between his traditional, elemental craft, and the heat, noise and history of the 5th November celebrations, led him to make many props and equipment for Bonfire Societies over the years.
Ben was always keen to pass the skills of his craft down to the next generation, and mentored young people at Plumpton College, many of whom went on to study Smithing at degree level and are continuing the tradition. This is his legacy, and he will be much missed by his family, friends and fellow Lewesians.
Visit Lewes and Carlotta Luke thank Mrs. Gill Autie for her kind permission to use Ben’s picture.
Image: Carlotta Luke
Katie Vandyck
As a dog owner living in the centre of town, Katie is very fond of the Railway Land Nature Reserve, and her enjoyment at being photographed there jumps out of this image. For her, the best thing about living in Lewes is being able to leave her home and be on the South Downs within minutes. Walking the dogs in all seasons means there’s no ‘good’ or ‘bad’ weather, “just weather – and its good for the soul”.
Image: Carlotta Luke
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Pete Todd
In 2012, a couple of friends suggested Pete join them on the Newhaven lifeboat, and after just one afternoon out, he was well and truly hooked.
Established in 1803, Newhaven Lifeboat Station covers from Beachy Head to Brighton, and operates an all weather Severn class lifeboat. Pete has been involved in many rescue operations, saving lives, returning dogs to their owners, and getting emergency medical help to people at sea. Crew members can be called out at any time, and Pete and his family have learned to adapt and be prepared for any scenario in any weather.
The nature of their work has built a great sense of camaraderie amongst the crew, as well as a wry sense of humour. Over the years, they have been awarded 19 medals for gallantry.
Image: Carlotta Luke
Rose Beale
As well as being a talented sculptor, Rose has been working as a prop maker at the world-famous Glyndebourne Opera House for over 30 years. She is photographed here with one of her favourite pieces, a mask from a recent production of The Barber of Seville.
Glyndebourne has been hosting its annual festival of opera since 1934. Today it reaches around 150,000 people a year with over 120 live opera performances.
Image: Carlotta Luke
Anthea Green
Following a career in education, Anthea came to the Charleston Trust in the early 90s. At that time she worked closely with the Director and Curator, and met Quentin Bell and other members of the family, picking up an extensive collection of stories and anecdotes to entertain and educate visitors. While working primarily as a tour guide, she also was instrumental in restoring many of the textiles seen in the house today, including the dining room curtains and the garden room cushions. The dining room – which once played host to Virginia and Leonard Woolf, E. M. Forster, Maynard and Lydia Keynes, and T. S. Eliot among others - remains her favourite room.
A natural communicator, Anthea loves her job, and loves passing on her encyclopaedic knowledge about Charleston and the Bloomsbury Group to its 35,000 visitors a year.
Image: Carlotta Luke
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Mohamed Hamid
Mo’s ramshackle treasure trove of a studio is piled high with beautiful ceramics of every shape and size. The colourful designs are inspired his African heritage, and the organic geometry of Islamic art. Mo is one of the many artists and craftspeople who have chosen to make the Lewes District their home, feeding from the rich cultural and creative history of the area.
Image: Alun Callender
Kelly HallKelly Hall is a Lewes-based artist who paints Modern Vintage artwork collections in celebration of the great Sussex landscape & beyond. Trading as Kelly Hall Designs since 2011, her first collections were launched at Lewes Tourist Information Centre. Her artwork is now available to buy as prints & greeting cards across the UK at leading retailers, including Royal Pavilion Brighton, Chichester Cathedral & John Lewis.
Image: Carlotta Luke
Chloe EdwardsA familiar sight around Lewes Town, Chloe and her ornately decorated pram can be found at the Market Tower on a Friday morning, and the Saturday Farmer's market. The pram holds some delicious secrets: an ever changing variety of seasonal Indian and Middle Eastern spices, dukkahs, and small batch pickles and chutneys, straight from Chloe's home kitchen. Her freshly made onion bhajis cannot be missed.
Sustainability is key to Seven Sisters' Spices. All Chloe's products are packaged in plastic free recyclable materials, and she encourages customers to return their empty jars and tins to be reused. Chloe also runs friendly cooking workshops from her home, where she inspires people to use spices with confidence. She loves the sense of community that flows when people cook together, and finds that by the time her students sit down to eat their creations, they've all become the best of friends.
Image: Carlotta Luke
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Ruth Rose
A lifelong lover of outdoor swimming, Ruth was drawn to Seaford for its clean, safe beach, and beautiful vistas along the coast. Seaford Mermaids has grown into a friendly supportive community who swim from the beach 365 days a year, in all weathers. At 86, Ruth credits her passion with keeping her fit and healthy, and hasn’t had a cold for 10 years. “We get a huge kick out of it” she says, “We glow afterwards”.
Ruth has spent years learning how to interpret information on tides, tidal drifts and weather conditions, and writes a bulletin for her fellow swimmers every evening, ready for their early start the next day. They swim at the Buckle in good conditions, or Tide Mills if the sea is rough. Surprisingly, the sea is at it's coldest in the first week of March, while the best views of sunrise are to be had in November, as the pink sky creeps over Seaford Head.
The Mermaids will always warmly welcome new members. They can be found on Seaford Beach at 7.15am on weekdays, and slightly later at the weekends.
Image: Carlotta Luke
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Andy Miller
After 48 years service, Andy is Harvey’s Brewery’s longest standing employee. Andy started, like every boy who joined Harvey’s in the old days, by looking after the bottles, but he now deals with empty barrels - of which there are many. He walks the mile to and from work every day, stopping at the Rights of Man on the way home for a pint of Harvey’s from a silver tankard, kept for him behind the bar. “You can drink, or drive” he says, “but you can’t do both!”
Harvey's Brewery is the oldest independent brewery in Sussex. A family business, the brewery has been in the guardianship of seven generations of John Harvey's descendants since 1790, with five family members from the seventh and eighth generations currently working here.
Harvey's finest can be enjoyed in many establishments across the county and there are many new infusions bubbling up all the time.
Image: Carlotta Luke
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Ali & Eli
Reaching the summit of Ditchling Beacon, the highest point in East Sussex, is no mean feat. Ali and Eli are just two of the many enthusiastic cyclists who take on the challenge regularly.
The South Downs National Park passes right through the district of Lewes. Currently England's newest National Park, it covers an area of 1,627 square kilometres and is accessible from multiple different parts of the district. It is a walker and cyclist's paradise and boasts some magnificent views that are the envy of many towns and cities.
The better well-known parts of the National Park are Beachy Head, the Seven Sisters, Seaford Head and Cuckmere Valley. All of which are easily accesible from anywhere within the district.
Image: Carlotta Luke
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