MOTORISTS are being warned of parking restrictions and road closures ahead of Ulverston's Dickensian Christmas Festival.

Cumbria Police have issued traffic advice for during the festival which takes place this weekend (November 29 and 30).

The force is appealing for motorists to park away from the town centre from 3pm on Friday (November 29) when police will be placing ‘No Waiting’ cones in specific areas and the Theatre Street Car Park will be closed to facilitate a safe parade and shopping area.

Road closures will be in effect on Saturday and Sunday from 9am until 5.30pm on Market Street, Market Place, New Market Street, Union Street, Theatre Street, Upper Brook Street, Cross Street and Brogden Street.

MORE TOP STORIES: The parking restrictions will apply from 3pm on Friday and they will be lifted by 5.30pm on Sunday.

Sergeant Rupert Johnston, of Ulverston Police, said: “This is a very popular and well attended event that local people and visitors enjoy year upon year.

“Many thousands of visitors are expected in the town this weekend so if you are planning on attending, consider transport options due to the road closures and parking restrictions that will be in place for your safety. We are urging people to make use of a park and ride bus running from the Auction Mart on North Lonsdale Road which has been organised by the Festival Committee.

“There will be a certain amount of disruption to the town centre but all the local shops and amenities will be open as usual. We hope that we will see the same levels of cooperation from local residents and visitors as we’ve had in previous years to make this a successful event for everyone.”