Broadstairs time-travelled back to the days of Victorian England as celebrations heralded the annual Dickens Festival.
The town was alive yesterday for the festival, which is in its 79th year, as the traditional parade moved through the town, starting at Pierremont Park.
Many of the characters that inhabited the pages of Dickens’ most famous novels were on view, while ladies and gentlemen paraded in beautifully-designed period costumes.
Fantastically detailed costumes from Dickens’ bold and brash characters were paraded through Broadstairs
Eleanor Secker, four, got into character for the festival opening
Victorian Broadstairs merged with the 21st century, 2016
Lucy Jones and Eleanor Jones, 22 months, in costume for the Dickens parade
Both upper and lower class dress could be seen in the Dickens parade
Children and adults alike got into the spirit of the Dickens Festival
People had Great Expectations of the festival and they were not disappointed, 2016
Eight-month-old Guy Wilson dressed up for the parade
John Myhill dressed as the town crier for the parade
Lots of children took part in the annual Dickens Festival parade
Parade to start the Broadstairs Dickens Festival
Traditional Victorian dress at the Broadstairs Dickens Festival
Costumed characters from some of Charles Dickens most famous plays were out in force for the parade
Patti Thomas wound the clock back to celebrate Victorian splendour
The parade wouldn't be complete without a royal visit
Sue and bear could also be seen taking part in the parade
Peter Sales took part by dressing up as a well-known Dickens character
Phil Challans got into the spirit of Dickens Festival in Broadstairs
The week of celebration continues until the Friday, June 19, with Dickens and Victorian-themed events for visitors to enjoy.
Pick up a programme at the festival kiosk on the upper promenade or click here for more details.