Waterloo Bonfire Society is very proud of the many fantastic costumes made and worn by our members. We like to encourage every one of our members to think about joining one of the three pioneer groups or the Victorian military section or other costume groups. So if you have ever looked at a specific costume and thought "I'd like to wear that" then please don't be shy, contact me and I will be more than happy to guide you in the right direction for help and advice for the costume you have your eye on.

So whether it's Mongolian, Greek or Roman, Tudor, Military or one of our other fantastic costumes, then we have great contacts for material & equipment etc. So just let me know and I will help you with where to go for the best advice. If you want to dress as a traditional smuggler then we can help you get it right, because it's not as easy as you might think. Please contact me at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it  and I will put you in touch with the right person.

Pioneers

Smugglers

Smugglers Colours:

Red and White Knitted Jersey

Smugglers are the original dress for Bonfire Night, adopted in order to prevent Bonfire Boys being recognised.  It is now worn by the workers as a practical option.  Ironically, it also now immediately recognisable as our Society's colours.  It is therefore important that Smugglers wear the correct dress which means knitted jerseys, neck scarf, white trousers/jeans a thick dark belt and black/dark brown boots or shoes.

Rugby shirts and tracksuits are not traditional dress and are not permitted in our ranks.

If you can’t get hold of a knitted jersey we have a good supply in all shapes and sizes.  Knitted jerseys cost £42.00 and can be purchased by contacting Amanda French at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .  We also have a supply of second hand white jeans in various sizes.

Some other examples of our many fantastic costumes......

Many thanks to Alison Melrose, Paul Reynolds, Sean Woodward & Mark Pacan for the above photographs from the 2008/2009 season!

Please Note that we are looking for people that are interested in joining the Victorian Naval Gun crew. This Crew will be pulling the Field gun & Cartridge box on the Fifth. We have the costumes and just need the bodies to fill them. If you are interested then please contact me and I will pass you details onto John Geering.

Finally, I am looking for anyone that may be interested in joining our growing Napoleonic section. I can give help, advice and contacts for great uniforms and/or dresses. If you are interested then please contact me at the usual address This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Thank You