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Gig - Rock in the Bog
3
Four years ago the Cliffe Bonfire Society bought a ten-acre
field off Earwig Corner in Malling. They wanted a back-up
fire-site in case there was ever a danger of them losing access
to the field off Ham Lane where their anarchic annual bonfire,
firework and effigy-exploding celebrations take place. Tonight
they are holding a fund-raising concert in their new field
for the third year running. It’s called Rock in the
Bog 3. Tribute band Brass Monkeys, who play covers of the
likes of Led Zeppelin and the Eagles, are providing the musical
entertainment. The CBS being the CBS there will also be a
fire, on which a barbeque will be prepared - a free burger
comes with every ticket. Naturally there is Harveys beer on
offer. You can camp there, as well, and there is free parking.
The Cliffe Bonfire Society is the oldest bonfire society in
town, together with Borough (originally called ‘Lewes’).
Both societies were formed back in 1853. Cliffe are by some
way the most raucous bunch, noticeable in the annual procession
for their 17 burning crosses to commemorate the martyrs burnt
at the stake in Lewes during the Marian persecution in 1555-7
and for the devil-take-the-hindmost look in their members’
eyes as they brandish their torches and vault barrels of burning
coals. My personal favourite moment in their celebrations
is when three men dressed as Roman Catholic cardinals read
the scriptures in Latin amid a hail of bangers. Tonight’s
bash won’t be half so wild, but you can bet on it that
it won’t be dull, either. DL |
