Street urchins begged for cash, busty brunettes touted their wares and waistcoated gentlemen tipped their hats as Rochester was transported back in time for this year’s Dickens Festival.

Oliver Twist famously asked for more, please, and that’s just what the people of Medway got at this year’s festival.

Running for its 30th year, it appears there is still an appetite for all things Dickensian in the Towns.

Despite fears of bad weather the sun beamed down as the colourful, costumed characters entertained the crowds.

The new mayor of Medway, Cllr David Carr, led the Saturday afternoon parade, accompanied by the mayoress Kirstine Carr. The couple certainly looked the part in Victorian costume.

Cllr Carr said: “It was a brilliant day. Despite the inclement weather lots of people still came along, and most of the people I spoke to were having a very good time. It was a great show and a success for Medway.”

Watch the video of the gurning competition