Prime Minister's Effigy Goes Up in Flames at Annual Celebration
Another massive effigy of Prime Minister Keir Starmer was set ablaze during Guy Fawkes night celebrations this evening. The dramatic burning took place at the annual Edenbridge bonfire night event on November 8 in Edenbridge, England, continuing a tradition of political satire.
Starmer Portrayed as Modern-Day Guy Fawkes
Laura Lawrence, of the Edenbridge Bonfire Society, explained their creative decision: 'The effigy this year for the first time actually has a Guy Fawkes ruff and he's wearing a hat because we feel that Starmer is doing quite well at igniting Parliament by himself at the moment.' The society has built a reputation for targeting prominent figures since 1994, with previous subjects including Liz Truss, Boris Johnson, and Donald Trump.
The 36-feet high effigy depicted Sir Keir wearing the traditional Fawkes ruff alongside flip flops, creating a striking visual contrast. The giant figure also sported a massive red badge bearing the phrase: 'Starmer The Farmer Harmer' - a clear reference to Labour's controversial inheritance tax proposals affecting agricultural communities.
Multiple Effigies Mock Prime Minister Across Sussex
This wasn't the only representation of the Prime Minister facing public scrutiny during the bonfire season. In Lewes, East Sussex, another effigy portrayed Sir Keir as a clown surrounded by giant juggling balls. These balls featured critical messages including 'balls up', 'inflation nation', and '100 in, one out', highlighting public frustration with his government's performance.
Another striking depiction showed a wild-eyed Sir Keir with dishevelled glasses, holding a detached steering wheel while riding a tractor marked with 'all lies Starmer'. The Edenbridge society revealed that Sir Keir had beaten other potential subjects including Andrew Mountbatten Windsor and Andrew Tate to become this year's controversial centrepiece.
The tradition of burning political effigies during Bonfire Night celebrations continues to serve as a vivid barometer of public opinion, with this year's events demonstrating significant criticism directed at the current government's policies and leadership direction.
