A CELEBRATION like no other will soon transform Ulverston into a festive wonderland as the Dickensian Christmas Festival kicks off this weekend.

Men in top hats, women in hooped skirts and pint-sized chimney sweeps will be a common sight throughout the town as the whole community embraces the spirit of the festival. Parades, fun and games and tables groaning with food and drink will also be on hand to keep the thousands of attendees in good cheer.

After more than 10 months of preparation organisers have said this year will be the biggest yet.

Michelle Scrogham, Dickensian Festival committee member, said: "It all seems to be coming together. We've increased the budget on the entertainment and there are more stalls than last year. It's the biggest one yet."

More than 160 stallholders will ensure this year's festivalgoers will not go hungry or thirsty during their time in Ulverston.

Over November 25 and 26 thousands are expected to flood into the town from across Furness. Mrs Scrogham puts the enduring popularity of the festival down to its welcoming nature.

She said: "It's the overall atmosphere of the weekend. Everyone is in a good mood. The turnout and the dressing up. Even two years ago with that huge storm, I was worried no one would turn up. But it was just as busy."

There were fears the flash flooding on Wednesday (22) would cast a shadow over the coming festival. However, fortune has smiled on the festival with clear weather and sunny skies predicted for Saturday and Sunday.

For newcomers yet to experience the festival in all its glory, Mrs Scrogham said: "Don't miss the street theatre and get yourselves a programme and check out what is going on at our four different stages."