A CROWD of more than 1600 people attended the annual Christmas Victorian fair at Helmshore textile museum.

Queues were waiting outside at 10.30am half an hour before the event started.

Principal keep of industrial museums Ian Gibson commented; "It has been pretty busy but nicely spread out throughout the day."

As well as looking around the museum visitors were able to search for Christmas gifts on the many stalls manned by staff in Victorian costume.

Attractions for the youngsters included a visit by Father Christmas and face painting.