GRASSINGTON is preparing for one of its busiest times of the year.

The town's hugely popular Dickensian Festival is due to take place over the first two weekends in December - and people are being encouraged to come along in Victorian dress.

Bands performing over the days will come from Skipton, Knaresborough, and Bradford.

School's taking part will include Ermysted's Grammar School, Upper Wharfedale School, and Threshfield School choir.

Around the village will be magic shows, walk about jugglers, Victorian street theatre, and Punch and Judy.

There will also be chestnut sellers and 'pick pockets' to add to the pre-Christmas event.

A festival spokesman said: "Surrounding the village squares there will be a great collection of outdoor stalls offering festive wares as well as plenty of outlets offering drinks and food to supplement the many pubs and cafes.

"The Devonshire Institute will be hosting their own indoor Christmas Craft Market again with plenty of gift ideas and a chance to warm with refreshments."

Refreshments will be available at Church House and also at the Congregational Church.

There will be a Santa's Grotto for the children and new for this year, a small herd of reindeer.

The spokesman added: "The nativity scene and community carol singing has been hailed as the highlight of the day as the picturesque square, shrouded in smoke from the open braziers, is lit by the lanterns reflecting the happy smiling faces of onlookers and is a great way to end each of the days’ festivities."

The festival will take place on Saturday, December 1 and Sunday, December 2; and again on Saturday, December 8 and on Sunday, December 9, from 11am to 5pm.

To find out more, visit: grassingtondickensian.co.uk