This year Workington's Christmas Festival may have been virtual, but was still packed with surprises.

The online event, which was switched on by Christopher Biggins, took place over the weekend of November 28 and 29.

In addition to being the first time it has been held virtually, it is also the first time that Workington railway station has been included.

Over the last six months Workington Town Council, Community Rail Cumbria and Northern have all worked in partnership to make this possible and to give the front of the station a real Christmas feel.

Due to the recent Covid situation, Workington Christmas Festival moved online so that many people could watch the festivities safely from the comfort of their own homes.

The entertainment included festive poems by John Hastings, music from popular musicians Stevie D, Jenia, Liam Moorhouse, Jenny Ball and Logan Paul Murphy.

A performance by headliner and previous X Factor winner, Sam Bailey, in addition to appearances from princesses, elves, special celebrity guests and even Santa himself.

The afternoon finished with the all-important countdown, led by the Mayor of Workington Councillor Janet King.

Sunday entertainment included crafty workshops and interactive games, with activities from Imagination Parties, Rainbow Jelly, Primary Puppets and South Workington Youth Partnership.

The online event was organised by Workington Town Council in partnership with CF Events.

A spokesman for the event said: "We hope the lights will bring a smile to peoples’ faces at a time when the town really needs a lift."

This year the festival is supporting two charities from any donations made: West Cumbria Carers and Young Cumbria.

See the virtual festival at: https://youtu.be/NtG_wqs068g