ULVERSTON’S Christmas celebrations have consistently raised the spirit of the community ahead of the festive season.

In December 2018, the Canal Regeneration Brolly Parade proved to be a big hit for the residents.

Several groups from the community took part, including schools, youth clubs, churches, and pub with the parade.

The event began at the Auction Mart Car Park, walking though Lakeland Aggregates, avoiding the narrow pavement along the A590.

The parade continued down the towpath and were led by Ulverston Inshore Rescue.

Parade walkers enjoyed warm drinks and hot dogs upon arrival at the Canal Foot end.

Children from Sir John Barrow Primary School choir sang their heart out to warm the spirits of walkers.

The entertainment was continued by the Ulverston Town Band playing for everyone to join in Christmas songs and carols.

Colin Smith, chairman of the Canal Regeneration Group, said The parade worked beautifully.

He said: “The lights down the towpath looked magical.

“There were over 50 intrepid people who laughed in the face of the weather and had a wonderful night.

“The choir from Sir John Barrow school sang sweetly while people warned up with drinks and food.

“Ulverston Town band rounded off the celebrations as their mellow tones created a wonderful atmosphere.

“It got the crowd joining in to wish everyone a Merry Christmas.”

In 2016, the Ulverston Dickensian Christmas Festival became one of the most loved and celebrated events in the area’s calendar after being nominated for an award.

At the year’s Heart of Ulverston Awards, the festival was nominated for the best Community Group/Project of the Year. In its 18th year at the time, the festival has shown no signs of slowing down in recent years.

Thousands of visitors came from around the country to take in the sights, sounds and tastes of the festival when in full swing. Stalls sold mulled wine, roasted nuts, shortbread and other festive treats.