HUNDREDS of people packed the streets of Tavistock last Friday, determined to enjoy festive cheer and late night shopping during the town's Dickensian Evening.
The smell of roasting chestnuts and sizzling sausages filled the crisp night air and tempted the tastebuds of the crowds at the event, organised by the Tavistock Chamber of Commerce.
Not so Dickensian was the distinctly modern sound of music played by the mobile Pirate FM van — yet just a few yards on, choirs sang traditional carols to add to the Christmas atmosphere.
Mince pies by the hundreds were munched throughout the evening, provided by tradesmen delighted at the impressive numbers of shoppers out to make the most of the extended opening hours.
Many were in full Victorian dress, complete with crinolines and imposing top hats.
But despite such 19th century attire, the 21st century was never far away — mobile phones were much in evidence clamped firmly to ears under Victorian bonnets, or bleeping shrilly from beaded reticules!
Judging the best dressed tradesmen and women were the Mayor of Tavistock and Anthony Power and Ellie Peart from Morwellham Quay.
Anthony said: 'This is the first time Morwellham Quay has been involved in this wonderful tradition — we hope it will not be the last. The whole experience was extremely rewarding.'
Ellie said choosing the winners was very difficult.
'Strict criteria are laid down by Tavistock Chamber of Commerce — points are gained for authenticity and homemade costumes — but the ladies at Patty's Flower Shop were most deserving victors.'
The silver salver for the best dressed window went to Toddle In of Paddons Row.
Guy Talbot, chamber secretary, said: 'We were very pleased with how the evening went. There were lots of people and we had good weather, which obviously helped.
'We're grateful to everyone who opened late and who helped make it an excellent evening.'