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Liz Truss effigy for Edenbridge Bonfire Society fireworks night dubbed 'bullying, barbaric and shameful'

People are in uproar over a decision to burn an effigy of Liz Truss at Kent's most famous bonfire night celebrations this year.

Yesterday, it was confirmed a likeness of our shortest-serving Prime Minister was to be the figurehead of the world famous annual Edenbridge Bonfire festivities in the town near Sevenoaks.

An effigy of Liz Truss has been created by artist Andrea Deans for the Edenbridge Bonfire Society fireworks night. Picture: Gareth Fuller/PA Wire
An effigy of Liz Truss has been created by artist Andrea Deans for the Edenbridge Bonfire Society fireworks night. Picture: Gareth Fuller/PA Wire

Every year since 1994, a 10m tall celebrity effigy has been burnt as part of the celebrations.

Previous depictions include former Prime Ministers Tony Blair, Gordon Brown and Liz's predecessor Boris Johnson.

Outside of politics there have also been effigies of shamed film producer Harvey Weinstein, television presenter Jonathan Ross, footballer Mario Balotelli, Fifa President Sepp Blatter and media personality Katie Hopkins.

But this year's choice of Liz Truss has been described by some as "bullying" and "barbaric".

'Sickening, barbaric and shameful'

People took to Facebook to give their opinions.

Martin Bachelor said: "Absolutely disgusting example to set, showing others that bullying and violence is acceptable.

"Just because you don't agree with the work another individual has done."

Adele Taggart said: "On what basis is this acceptable in today's world? Sickening, barbaric and shameful."

But others defended the choice.

An effigy of Boris Johnson was burned in 2018
An effigy of Boris Johnson was burned in 2018

Dipak Gohil said: "It's an effigy so let's not get too serious. Bonfire night has been celebrated for a long time.

"This is just another amusing way to do it. Instead of poor Guy Fawkes, have a modern day parliamentarian."

Darren Hartle said: "It's called 'having a sense of humour'. Too many people have forgotten that.

"The 'let's all jump on the offended bandwagon' seems to be the first thought for most people now. Sad existence.

"Life is full of humour and irony. Embrace it for what it is."

Donald Trump was the celebrity 'Guy' in 2016
Donald Trump was the celebrity 'Guy' in 2016

The Edenbridge Bonfire Society has been asked for its take on the comments but has not yet responded.

The event will take place on Saturday, November 5 from 6.30pm. All roads into Edenbridge will close at 6pm.

The procession is free to watch, but tickets to the fireworks display at the Recreation Ground will need to be purchased in advance or on the gate. Find out where to get your tickets here.

Tickets cost £7 per adult and £4 per child when purchased beforehand.

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