ORGANISERS have hailed the impact of a long-standing Christmas event which this year attracted around 18,000 people to an Anglesey Town.

The Victorian Christmas extravaganza has become an annual occurrence on the Beaumaris calendar since it began fifteen years ago.

This year’s event, held on Saturday and Sunday, saw the introduction of Victorian steam machines which proved to be very popular with guests.

Beaumaris Town band led the lively procession and life-like re-enactments were performed throughout the day.

Queen Victoria also made an appearance, lending art competition winner Ellie Jones, from Llangoed, a hand as she switched on the Christmas tree lights.

Former Beaumaris Mayor Jason Zalot, part of the team of Victorian Committee volunteers who set up the event, said: “The streets here were rammed all day long and it’s been the most successful Victorian Christmas event to date as we’ve estimated around 18,000 people visited over the two days.

“The very first firework went off at exactly the same time as the Christmas tree lights were switched on, which was staggering. Every shopkeeper on the street agreed this is the best way to showcase Beaumaris. We really can push Victorian events like nobody else can.”

Mr Zalot also thanked other volunteers, the Buckley Hotel, David Hughes Centre, Canolfan Beaumaris and Town Council for their “excellent work”.