THE cobbled streets of Ulverston were transported back in time this morning at the seventeenth annual Dickensian Christmas Festival.

The event is expected to attract thousands of people over the weekend.

There is a huge variety of free entertainment, events for children, costume competitions, balloon modelling, horse drawn carriages, music and dancing. 

Among those braving the driving rain earlier today was Stephen Holt, who travelled from Manchester for his first time at the Ulverston festival.

Sporting an Edwardian police man's uniform, he said: "I have been to a number of festivals in Grassington and Brighouse but never Ulverston.

"The weather is unfortunate but it is what we are used to this time of the year. People have put a lot of effort into making this event what it is."

On why he chose to dress up as a policeman, he said: "It is the history of the uniform. Some people remember their ancestors being in the force so it is always nice to talk to them and answer any questions."

Ulverston councillor Norman Bishop-Rowe said: "It is one of the best types of this festival in the country.

"Last year there was more than 20,000 people over the two days. This year we have people coming from Scotland, the Midlands, Northern Ireland and Ulverston's twin town, Albert."

Later on today town mayor Bharath Rajan will turn on the Christmas Lights and there will be a performance from Ulverston Victoria High School's big band.

For a full programme of events visit www.dickensianfestival.co.uk.