AFTER all the recent turmoil in the world, familiarity and tradition has never seemed so valuable.

One staple of Christmas is the Lymm Dickensian Day festival.

Established over 30 years ago by a number of traders in the village, the festival was a device to help increase footfall among the village retailers in the darker winter months, encouraging as many traders to dress up in a Victorian fashion.

Since then, the event grew in size and popularity and is now an important part of the Lymm events calendar.

And it returns on Lymm Dickensian Christmas Festival is on Saturday, December 11 and the events start at 11am in the centre of the village.

The landscape of the village lends itself well to the themes of Charles Dickens’ work. Many of the buildings were built during the period and the smoky atmosphere of the chimney pots, cobbled streets and canal all add to the flavour of the day.

At the time Lymm was intended to be the next industrial town but never quite got there.

People of all ages enjoy the day

People of all ages enjoy the day

The Merchant Britain of the 1800s is celebrated in the festivals many stalls selling a range of gifts and foods. These run through the village centre and in venues such as the Lymm Youth & Community Centre, Lymm Village Hall and Lymm Methodist Church.

A music hall-style variety of events is scheduled for the day including Punch and Judy, choirs and bands beginning in the village centre at 11am.

There is a Santa Dash – organised by the Lymm Runners – followed by the parade at 1.30pm running through the village centre.

Volunteers are keen to see the festival continue to evolve and adapt. The committee is always looking for new volunteers, as well as new stalls and attractions.

“We constantly look at how we can add to the festival,” said Steve Harper of the committee.

“Over the years, we have had Old Time Music Hall, sword dancers, traction engines, model t fords, concert bands and choirs give up their time for the benefit of the festival. We encourage it to be an all-inclusive full day event.

Those visiting dress up in Victorian-style clothing

Those visiting dress up in Victorian-style clothing

“We have competitions – best dressed male, female, school and shop window. We encourage all traders to make the most of the day, by dressing up and getting involved.

A spokesperson added: “We kindly ask that masks are worn in indoor venues and that social distancing is followed.”

There is a park and ride service from Lymm High School on Oughtrington Lane.

For more information, click here.