Thousands of people normally go to the bonfire celebrations in Lewes

Lewes Bonfire Council said it was "particularly unsuitable" for children who could be frightened or get hurt.

Thousands of people descend on Lewes for the biggest bonfire event in Sussex which sees local societies parade through the streets on 5 November.

Non-residents are being discouraged from attending because of the lack of parking and crowded public transport.

'Vulnerable to injury'

Lewes Bonfire Council, which represents the town's six bonfire societies, issued the warning supported by Sussex Police and Lewes District Council.

A Sussex Police spokeswoman 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 there are no parking facilities.

"Those using public transport are likely to find that it is very crowded and they may have to queue.

40,000 revellers

"Children in pushchairs and buggies are vulnerable to injury due to the density of the crowd.

"We know from many years' experience that the larger the crowd the more uncomfortable it can become for spectators."

The bonfire calendar in East Sussex runs from September until the end of November with more than 20 societies taking part in weekly processions across the county.

Lewes plays host to the biggest event of the bonfire season with up to 40,000 people attending the celebrations in the small town.