Time in Finchingfield was turned back more than 100 years at the weekend for a Victorian extravaganza.

The Guildhall played host to hundreds of visitors, some from as far away as Southend, to see re-enactors bring a taste of Victorian life to the village.

One of the highlights was Charles Dickens reading to children and their parents in the library.

Kiki Wood, of the Guildhall, said: “Once the visitors had made Victorian sweets, clay charms and paper lanterns, they decorated wooden tree decorations and taste Victorian treats including pink gin.

“There was a treasure hunt and fabulous presents to win from our lucky dip and Robin raffle.”

She added: “It was a really good event which helps to spread the word about the Guildhall and support the upkeep of the building. We hope to do the 60s in the summer and will also be having a First World War weekend in April.”