ORGANISERS have declared this year's Pickwick Night a resounding success.

Police estimated between 2,000 and 3,000 people thronged the streets of Whalley for the traditional Christmas shopping extravaganza.

Traders and stall holders donned Victorian costumes while brass bands and carol singers added to the Christmas spirit. Free mulled wine and mince pies also helped visitors get into the festive mood.

Ken Readfern, chairman of the Pickwick Night committee, said: "It went wonderfully well.

"From reports we've heard back, traders say they were very pleased by the night.

"The opening ceremony went off smoothly, the fireworks went off at the right time and it passed off peacefully. It is testament to the hard work of a lot of people over a long period of time."

Pickwick Night was officially declared open by Ribble Valley town crier Roland Hailwood and the Mayor of Ribble Valley, Coun Charles Warkman, was called on to make a few opening remarks.

Dozens of local charities, voluntary groups and other stallholders held tombolas, raffles and other prizegiving attractions to help raise money for their causes.

Both ends of King Street were closed off to traffic by police while many visitors arrived by park and ride or train to avoid the traditional parking problems.