A whole host of exciting events to cater for all ages has been laid on across the town.

The colourful spectacle and carnival atmosphere of the Gothic Weekend not only brings thousands of goths from across the globe but also many more tourists who come to enjoy the weekend.

Two sell-out gigs at the Pavilion tonight and tomorrow night are the highlight of the weekend with bands from Britain and the US performing.

Usual favourites such as Sexy Sunday and Manic Monday will return at The Met which will also be hosting a knock-out pool competition at 3pm on Saturday and a sandcastle building contest is also planned for the beach.

For those with a stronger disposition a sponsored bungee jump in aid of the RNLI will be held on Saturday at the bandstand from 10.30am.

The Dracula Drop had to be cancelled in October due to high winds but is set to be a big draw tomorrow – get there early to see the Whitby Gazette’s Carl Gavaghan attempt the jump.

Licensees in the town have been briefed by police to stop people drinking in the streets, which has been a major problem over recent years, especially around the top of Flowergate.

Insp Pete Morgan said plans are in place to ensure this year does not see a repeat of the problem.

The Goth Weekends have a tremendous effect on the local economy with hotels, B&Bs, pubs and attractions all seeing the benefits from the influx of goths.

Organiser Sam Hoyle said it looked like being one of the best weekends yet.

“It is all coming together,” he said.

“It looks like we are going to have great weather for it and the bands at the Pavilion will be fantastic.”

Mr Hoyle said among the new attractions this year are a number of street traders who will be appearing in the town.

l SEE Tuesday’s Whitby Gazette for your eight-page Goth Weekend special.