CHRISTMAS has officially arrived in Ulverston as townsfolk and visitors donned an eclectic range of traditional garments for the annual Dickensian Festival.

A sea of Victorian hats, canes, dresses and coats swept its way through the South Lakeland town for the 17th running of the festival.

Event co-ordinator Peter Winston hailed it as an 'amazing' weekend despite attendees having to deal with hail storms and frequent rain showers.

"There has been a drop in numbers due to the weather and people were able to move around a bit easier, but it has still been very enjoyable," he said.

"It's pretty amazing – so many people have their own costumes and whatever the weather, they get involved. It's a fantastic effort from so many people."

Thousands of visitors made their way to Ulverston to enjoy the vast array of stalls which lined the cobbled the streets. The also had the chance to meet characters that looked as though they stepped straight out of one of Dickens’ stories. The Dickensian parade on Saturday was one of the best in recent years with everyone from toffs to urchins walking side by side in the wake of Queen Victoria herself – rolling along in stately style in a bath chair. The Festival also saw the official switch on of the Ulverston Christmas lights.

There was a good range of locals and those that had come from further afield to enjoy the weekend.

Professor Brian Llewellyn and his wife Marilyn were attending for the first time. They had come from Darlington with their Punch and Judy show.

"It's absolutely fantastic, I've never seen anything like it," Mr Llewelyn said. "It's a massive event and it goes right through the town. There's been a great atmosphere, everyone is in such good spirits, and I can't over how many people there are."

Beth Varley and Helen Clough were donning Dickensian dress at their stall for Hill Foot Garden Centre. Beth said: "It's part of Ulverston's culture is the Dickensian festival.

"The whole community is out and everyone comes together to represent the town.

"Everyone looks great. I'm really impressed with the outfits, there's been a huge effort."

David Winder was navigating the streets alongside his 1931 Fowler steam wagon, which has been a fixture of the festival for the past five years.

"I think it's a really good atmosphere and I really like all the costumes. They seem to get better each year as people get less and less self concious."