RULES FOR CONSTITUTION (1991)
AMMENDMENTS 1996, 2000, 2008, 2010

1. The aim of the Society is to hold an Annual Bonfire Celebration, in the tradition of Sussex, with a procession, bonfire and fireworks display on a date as agreed by the members.
2. A street collection shall be made on the same date, the proceeds of which will go to benefit local charities.
3. The Society shall be non-profit making. The cost and expenses to the Celebration will be met by the fundraising activities of the Membership.

4a.  Membership of the Society shall be paid by subscription and open to men and women aged 18 years and over, subscriptions payable between MARCH 31st and by AUGUST 31st*
4b.  Honorary Membership granted for a 12 month period to those non-members who give service to the Society (no voting rights).
4c.  Life Membership can be awarded to a member who has given long or exceptional service to the Society (full voting rights and executive committee status).
5.   Junior membership is no longer available.
5a   Family Membership shall include ALL children under 18. They will be the sole responsibility of parents/legal guardians at all home / away events. No responsible adult – no bonfire attendance.
6.   Annually, the Members shall elect from the Membership a Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer and any other officers they deem necessary to conduct the business of the Society.
7.   An Annual General Meeting shall be held in the month of March. The purpose of this meeting shall be:

• To pass the audited accounts
• To accept the Chairman’s report
• To elect the officers of the Society
• To transact any other business
• Any changes to this Constitution may be made only at the AGM or at an Extraordinary General Meeting. Notice of such a meeting, and the proposed change, must be given in writing to Members three weeks in advance of the meeting.
• That all Members should accept the Bonfire Council rulings that:
• No fireworks should be carried or discharged.
• That the instructions given by Marshalls, who will be clearly identifiable, will be closely obeyed at all times.
• That anyone failing to obey the rules of the Society, or guilty of serious misconduct, or bringing the Society into disrepute, will be called before the Executive Committee and may be subject to disciplinary measures.
• That the first pioneer costume of the Society shall be the black and white Cistercian Monk’s habit. In order to maintain the visual effect in processions, Members not in this costume will be asked to march at the rear.
• That only Members of the Society will be permitted to march in the procession.

Guidance notes to Rule 6: - proposed recipient must be voted at an AGM, carry a minimum 80% vote by secret ballot.
*All existing members will need to pay by August 31st or they will be subject to rejoining the Society as New Members.

If you agree to the above constitution, please proceed and download a membership form from below:

Membership form