The great-great-grandson of celebrated Victorian author Charles Dickens gave Ulverston’s Dickensian Christmas Festival his seal of approval in 2006.

Gerald Dickens was the VIP guest at the weekend’s Evening Mail-sponsored festival.

Mr Dickens gave readings in town centre pubs, cafes and bookshops.

He also gave his one-man presentation of A Christmas Carol to a packed and appreciative audience at Lanternhouse on the Saturday night.

Dressed in Victorian costume like his illustrious ancestor, Mr Dickens joined the grand parade through the town before switching on the town’s festive lights.

The smell of roasted chestnuts wafted across the cobbled streets as the spirit of Christmas past lingered in the air at the festival.

The festival always attracts thousands of visitors and, in its eighth year, it did not disappoint.

Set against the ideal backdrop of historic buildings and narrow ginnels, enthusiasts and traders wore period costume to bring to life Dickensian characters such as Scrooge, Fagin, Bill Sykes and Oliver Twist.

As they made their way through the bustling streets, crowds were entertained on every corner by brass bands, choirs and ensembles.

Chimney sweeps, elegant ladies and smart gentlemen gathered to sit on bales of hay and listen to music at Market Square and County Square, while children in Dickensian dress playfully danced in front of the special stages.

Singing organs dotted around the town created a festive atmosphere, while colourful market stalls selling local produce, confectionery and crafts lined the streets where people feasted on hog roasts and hot drinks.

One visitor, Andrew Bannister, 23, of Colne, said: "This was my first visit to the festival so I didn't know what to expect but it was brilliant to see so many people taking part.

"Some of the costumes were outstanding. Walking through the town was like walking through a Dickensian novel.

"Everyone really entered into the spirit and that made for a great jolly atmosphere."

Dickensian committee member Jayne Kendall said: "There has been a fantastic turnout including the number of people who have dressed up. It is wonderful to see."

The Mail was also on hand to take photographs at the 2005 festival.