Why Is Keir Starmer’s Effigy the Star of This Year’s Bonfire Event?

This year, Sir Keir Starmer has been chosen as the effigy for the Edenbridge Bonfire Society's annual celebration, reflecting a public vote that saw him secure more votes than other high-profile figures. The society, known for its satirical tribute to infamous personalities for over 30 years, will showcase a large effigy of the Prime Minister during their Bonfire Night festivities, which include playful nods to recent political events.

Last updated: 05 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

The Edenbridge Bonfire Society is gearing up for its annual celebration this Saturday, where an 11-metre effigy of Sir Keir Starmer will take centre stage. The choice of Starmer has stirred interest, especially as he recently received more public votes than other contenders, including Andrew Mountbatten Windsor and Angela Rayner. This event not only highlights the society's tradition of satirical commentary but also serves as a unique opportunity for community engagement through voting.

Key takeaways

• Sir Keir Starmer is this year's effigy for Edenbridge Bonfire Society's celebration.
• The decision was made based on a public vote, marking a democratic element in the selection process.
• Previous effigies have included notable figures like Donald Trump and Liz Truss.

Timeline: how we got here

The Edenbridge Bonfire Society has been creating effigies for nearly 100 years, with its current tradition of public voting introduced to involve the community. In 2023, the society announced that Sir Keir Starmer was the chosen figure following a vote that involved various political personalities. The decision-making process included crafting an effigy that reflects both current events and the society's longstanding satire tradition.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Sir Keir Starmer's effigy features unique elements that reflect recent political gaffes and controversies, such as a Guy Fawkes ruff and a hat symbolising his perceived role in Parliament. Other characteristics include a humorous representation of his recent slip of the tongue regarding "sausages" and a badge that signifies the backlash from farmers regarding inheritance tax reforms.

What was already established

The Edenbridge Bonfire Society has a long history of using its effigies to critique and poke fun at public figures. This year’s choice of Starmer continues that tradition, which has included various political leaders and cultural icons in its past effigies.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The event draws significant local attendance, contributing to community spirit and engagement. It also serves as a platform for political expression, with attendees often discussing the issues represented by the effigy in the context of their own experiences.

Businesses and jobs

Local businesses in Edenbridge can benefit from increased foot traffic due to the event, which draws visitors from surrounding areas. These festivities might provide an economic boost as local shops and eateries prepare for the influx of attendees.

Policy and regulation

While the event primarily focuses on entertainment and satire, it also reflects ongoing political dialogues and tensions within the UK. The discussions emerging from the effigy’s representation may influence local sentiment towards policies and decision-makers.

Numbers that matter

• 11 metres tall: The height of Sir Keir Starmer's effigy.
• 30+ years: The duration for which the Edenbridge Bonfire Society has been crafting effigies.
• 3 contenders: The number of figures up for public vote alongside Starmer, including Andrew Mountbatten Windsor and Angela Rayner.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Effigy: A sculpture or model of a person used for public display, often to ridicule or satirise.
• Guy Fawkes: A historical figure who attempted to blow up the Houses of Parliament in 1605; associated with Bonfire Night.
• Bonfire Night: An annual celebration on 5 November commemorating the foiling of the Gunpowder Plot.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

The upcoming Bonfire Night celebration will be the focus of community attention, fostering discussions around political satire and public sentiment towards current issues. Attendees can expect lively debates about the effigy and its implications.

Medium term (1–6 months)

The reactions to Starmer's effigy may inform public sentiment regarding his leadership and policies, possibly influencing future voter behaviour in local and national elections.

Signals to watch

• Public reactions to the effigy and discussions on social media.
• Subsequent media coverage and political commentary following Bonfire Night.
• Reactions from political figures regarding the society's choice of effigy.

Practical guidance

Do

• Engage with local events to understand community sentiment.
• Participate in discussions about the political themes addressed by the effigy.

Don’t

• Dismiss the significance of local traditions in political discourse.
• Ignore the potential economic benefits to local businesses from the event.

Checklist

• Plan to attend the Bonfire Night celebration.
• Research the themes of this year's effigy for informed discussions.
• Consider how local events like this influence public opinion.
• Support local businesses during the festivities.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the Edenbridge Bonfire Society's choice of effigy is intended as harmless satire, it may provoke strong reactions from different political factions. The ongoing political climate can lead to unexpected interpretations of the effigy, and community responses might vary widely, reflecting broader sentiments around Starmer's leadership and policies.

Bottom line

The selection of Sir Keir Starmer as this year's effigy by the Edenbridge Bonfire Society highlights the intersection of community tradition and political satire. As the event approaches, it offers a unique opportunity for public engagement and reflection on current political issues.

FAQs

Why was Sir Keir Starmer chosen as the effigy this year?

Sir Keir Starmer was selected as the effigy for the Edenbridge Bonfire Society's celebration due to receiving the most votes in a public poll, showcasing the community's interest in his political role.

What are some elements included in Starmer's effigy?

The effigy features a Guy Fawkes ruff, a hat, and humorous nods to his recent slip of the tongue regarding "sausages" instead of "hostages," along with a badge referencing local farming issues.

How long has the Edenbridge Bonfire Society been creating effigies?

The Edenbridge Bonfire Society has been crafting effigies for nearly 100 years, evolving its themes and subjects each year to reflect contemporary issues and personalities.