A long-awaited bonfire evening and torchlight procession has been cancelled following opposition from villagers.

Officials at Eastbourne Bonfire Society had hoped to stage the event after a 36-year absence in Pevensey, near the castle, tonight.

However, villagers feared an influx of up to 2,500 people, including bonfire society members from across Sussex.

They believed their peace would be ruined as colourfully-dressed people walked through the village, some carrying drums.

A small event, attended by about 70 people, was held in the same field beside the church in Pevensey last year.

However, some complained about the noise which one farmer blamed on some of his cows suffering miscarriages.

A bonfire, fireworks and procession was supposed to have been held by the society on Eastbourne beach last week.

But because it coincided with the subsequently-cancelled fire strike, officials could not guarantee safety and called it off.

This latest blow follows months of hard fund-raising by society members, including quiz nights, auctions and money collecting in Eastbourne town centre.

Society chairman Derek Legg said thoughts would now turn to next year, with plans to stage it in Eastbourne.

He said: "We are disappointed but we have got to be pragmatic and take the sensible line. We don't want to create any hostility.

"But we are definitely looking to hold an event next year. We'll now have to work with the authorities to gain their support."