Controversial Decision
A town in Kent has created a 35ft effigy of London Mayor Sadiq Khan for its annual bonfire night celebration. The effigy, which will be set on fire, holds a sign representing the Ultra Low Emission Zone (Ulez) and wads of cash, symbolizing the mayor's decision to extend the Ulez car crackdown. This decision has affected residents of Edenbridge, as they are now subject to the extended levy on polluting vehicles when driving closer to the capital.
Annual Tradition
The Edenbridge Bonfire Society chooses a different celebrity "villain" each year for its bonfire effigy. Previous public figures who have been ridiculed include Liz Truss, Boris Johnson, Harvey Weinstein, Donald Trump, and Katie Hopkins. This year, Sadiq Khan was chosen over other contenders such as Suella Braverman, Russell Brand, Phillip Schofield, and Harry and Meghan.
Impact on the Town
The Ulez scheme was introduced in 2019 to improve London's air quality and discourages drivers from using highly polluting vehicles by charging them a daily fee to enter the zone. However, residents of Edenbridge feel that there is no support for those who live outside the extended zone but are still greatly affected by the decision. The bonfire effigy serves as a way for the community to express their dissatisfaction with the mayor's actions.
Upcoming Event
The bonfire night celebration in Edenbridge is expected to attract nearly 10,000 people from London, Surrey, Kent, and Sussex. The event will feature a torch-lit carnival procession through Edenbridge High Street, involving 550 participants. The Edenbridge Bonfire Society has been celebrating bonfire night for 95 years and has even been featured in Pathe News clips dating back to the 1950s.
Did you miss our previous article…
https://hellofaread.com/politics/poorer-areas-face-greater-risk-of-being-banned-from-gambling-in-new-clampdown/
