THE launch party for Accrington’s first ever Victorian Christmas weekend has taken place.
Councillors Peter Britcliffe and Marlene Haworth donned Victorian outfits at Scaitcliffe House to recreate a Christmas spirit of old and kick-off the highly anticipated event.
"This is set to be a fantastic weekend for visitors and traders alike," said Councillor Marlene Haworth, the cabinet member for markets. "We already have the wonderful Victorian architecture in Accrington and to make the whole thing a real success, we need as many market traders and shopkeepers as possible to dress up to recreate the spirit of Christmas past."
From Thursday 10 to Sunday 13 December a series of Victorian themed events will take place across the town centre as part of Hyndburn’s Year of Culture.
Schoolchildren will have the chance to win prizes worth a total of £500 by belting out their best Christmas carols on Broadway.
Cash prizes will be offered to market traders and shops who join in festivities by dressing up in period costume and serving hungry shoppers with seasonal delicacies.
Other attractions include a Victorian treasure trail competition, Santa’s grotto (£4 per child), town crier and the chance to dance the night away at Accrington Town Hall on Saturday 12 at an Olde Time Dance night.
Councillor Peter Britcliffe, the leader of Hyndburn Borough Council, said: "People have been asking us for some time to hold more events like this.
"We hope as many people as possible get involved and make it a huge success that we can repeat each year."
To get involved with the Victorian Christmas weekend, please call or email Gayle Knight on 01254 387851 or info@hyndburn2009.co.uk.
Chorus Line, of Waterfoot, Rossendale, will supply the costumes for the event.
- Pictured: Councillor Peter Britcliffe and Councillor Marlene Haworth in Victorian outfits at Scaitcliffe House
