This year’s Dickensian Christmas in Rochester looks set to be one of the busiest ever with a welcome by the author’s great, great grandson as part of the celebrations.

Gerald Dickens will bring his internationally-acclaimed adaptation of A Christmas Carol to Medway for the first time, playing no less than 26 characters in a one-man theatrical adventure performed at The Corn Exchange.

Parades and processions, street entertainment, readings, song and dance will also fill the streets during two days of festivities this weekend.

Familiar characters from the author’s great literary masterpieces will mingle with the crowds in the high street, artists and designers will showcase new pieces and Father Christmas himself will bring his magical grotto to Rochester Castle Gardens.

There will be opportunities to enjoy a sumptuous Christmas feast, listen to a concert with a Christmas Twist, and join The Fabulous Fezheads who describe themselves as England’s premiere sand dance-vaudevillian-illusionists.

A candlelit parade, carol concerts and a sprinkling of magical snow will add the perfect touches to a weekend of festivities and celebration, honouring the life and works of one of the best loved authors of all time. Street entertainment includes The Singing Chimney Sweeps, the Pickwick Players, Right Royal Revels and the City of Rochester Pipe Band.

n For more information about Rochester’s Dickensian Christmas contact Medway Visitor Information Centre on 01634 843666 or visit www.medway.gov.uk/dickensianchristmas.