The streets of Rochester were packed for the annual Dickensian Christmas festival in an event seemingly unaffected by the economic downturn.

Visitors packed the High Street over the weekend to enjoy the event.

There was even fake snow showering the crowds to add to the festive feel of the Dickensian spectacular.

Peter Digby, of Rochester, dressed as an early 19th century soldier.

He said: “I have been coming her for 20 years and I have never seen it so busy.”

His wife Sandi, dressed as a Victorian lady, said: “This year we have had a lot of visitors and many have come from Lille in France, who knew exactly who Charles Dickens was.”

Stallholders the City of Rochester Round Table, who had a burger stand, said trade was up on the previous festival.

Richard Goodhand, from the group, said: “Things are going well and our takings are actually up on this time last year.”

Other traders did not see a boost, but were at least holding steady.

Sarah Hart, of the Camille flower shop, said: “It is not as good as last year, but we are not doing too badly.”

The High Street was packed wall to wall with visitors on Saturday. Drivers struggling to find parking spaces close by had to search out spaces further away, such as in the Maidstone Road area.

The festival also spread into Rochester Castle Gardens, which had fairground rides.

Several people dressed as Dickens characters, including Miss Havisham and Mr Pickwick, with a fair amount of street urchin children.

Rochester town crier Robin Burfoot was there to add to the colourful spectacle.