Police are calling on people not to go to Lewes' traditional bonfire celebrations on Saturday.

The call to avoid Sussex's biggest Guy Fawkes event follows the floods of three weeks ago, which have prompted safety fears.

More than 30,000 people usually flock to the down for the parade, firework displays and bonfires.

But today the South Street bonfire society announced it had cancelled its fireworks display and bonfire, although it is continuing with plans for a procession.

And rail firm Connex says it will not be laying on extra trains for the first time in years.

In a joint statement today, Sussex Police and Lewes District Council said this week's heavy rain had not allowed the town to recover.

Lewes' police commander, Superintendent Simon Parr, said: "The town of Lewes has simply not had time to get over the devastating effects of the floods.

"Matters have been made worse by this week's storms and there is more bad weather expected over the next few days.

"The ground is so saturated that one bonfire society has cancelled its display.

"Others are striving to ensure the safety of even limited numbers of spectators, and may be forced to greatly restrict numbers of people allowed to witness their displays.

"In addition to waterlogged ground, some street lighting is still out in very important areas and won't be restored by the weekend.

"I urge people to consider their own safety, and that of others, and not to travel to Lewes on Saturday."

A council spokesman said: "We are keen for the celebrations to go ahead to give the people of Lewes a much-needed boost at this time. However, public safety is paramount.

"We support the necessity of discouraging people not resident in the town from coming to the event and adding to the pressures on Lewes."

Andy Leister of Connex said: "In response to a request from Sussex Police and Lewes District Council we will not be running additional trains to and from Lewes on Saturday evening.

"We are advising travellers not to attempt to travel to Lewes by train. If you do, you may find you are unable to return by rail."