Hundreds brave icy weather to enjoy Rickmansworth Victorian Evening

The town's Christmas lights were officially switched on by cast members from Jack and the Beanstalk, this year's pantomime at Watersmeet Theatre, who were handing out 'magic bean' seeds.

Families were also kept entertained by appearances from Father Christmas, the Rickmansworth Phoenix Morris Dancers and the Leal School of Dance and Performing Arts, also based in Rickmansworth.

Three Rivers Museum also opened late with staff also dressed in period attire, including a Penny Farthing, to give visitors a history lesson about the area.

Stalls manned by community groups, including the Colne Valley Special Sailors and Watford Mencap, lined the streets, while many shops stayed open late to take part in the event - including for the first time ever, Natwest Bank.

Cash was also raised for a number of good causes, with the leader of Three Rivers District Council (TRDC), Ann Shaw, roasting chestnuts to raise £160 for Beat The Killer Cold, while Chris Blake Butchers collected more than £500 for Help for Heroes.

The money will be matched pound for pound by TRDC. Cllr Shaw said: "I have been taking part in the Victorian Evening every year since its inception and it is always very good fun.

"It's nice to be able to dress up in costume and support the local community."

Nina Hosking, Chairman of the Rickmansworth Chamber of Commerce, which organised the event, added: "Despite the freezing weather, it was an absolutely brilliant event with a lovely Christmassy atmosphere, and lots of new faces.

"As well as raising the profile of the high street, the evening is all about being part of the business and wider community and engaging with people."