Published Date:
11 December 2009
By Carl Gavaghan
CHRISTMAS spirit was in abundance in Robin Hood's Bay recently when more than 1,000 people took part in the village's festive Victorian Weekend celebrations.
Whitby Gazette photographer Ceri Oakes was on hand to capture the action in this fun-filled video exclusive.
A packed programme of events was lined up for this year, which organisers said was the best yet, with the village's car parks full and holiday accommodation fully booked.
All the favourite events from past years were back, including the annual duck race, a pantomime, a Victorian fancy dress competition and carol services.
But there were also some new additions which proved a hit.
A magician performed close-up magic in the village's pubs and cafes and around 30 inventive scarecrows made by local families popped up around Bay's historic streets.
One of the organisers, John Henny, said people had come from all over the country to take in the sights and sounds.
"It's such a well-publicised event and because it's been going for so many years people have even been booking again for next year," he added. "Everyone is hoping it will continue next year and we will build on what we've done this year.
"There were a lot of new things happening that haven't happened before and the feedback has been absolutely amazing."
Dressed in her regal finery, Queen Victoria meandered around the streets greeting people.
Among her duties was the judging of the competitions which took place during the weekend.
Highlights included the arrival of Father Christmas, when a procession was held down to the bottom of the village, where he took up residence in his grotto at the Bay Hotel for the weekend until Sunday, when he marched back up the bank again to head back to the North Pole.
At 4.30pm on Sunday a large crowd gathered to take part in a torchlight parade which culminated in seasonal carols around the dock. The night was rounded off with a firework display to draw the weekend to a close.
Mr Henny added: "By the end of the procession, there were around 300 people in the dock area, which is the most we've had at the event in years."
Funds raised are still being counted by the organisers. This year, local organisations and charities will be able to apply for a share.
-
Last Updated:
22 December 2009 4:03 PM
-
Source:
n/a
-
Location:
Whitby