A VICTORIAN Christmas Fayre at a picturesque location in Weymouth is set to take visitors back through time this weekend.

The traditional fayre boasts an extra wow-factor, as it is to be held against the backdrop of the swannery, featuring live entertainment over two days.

The free event is being held tomorrow and Sunday, and will feature small fairground rides including a miniature steam train.

Visitors can relax on straw bales to watch bands, choirs and dance groups perform on a covered stage outside the Palm House Café.

Stallholders in full period costume will be serving traditional food and drink, accompanied by the sounds of a Victorian street organ. Stalls include a gin bar, candy floss and oriental food from the nearby Gurkha restaurant, as well as mulled wine and roast chestnuts.

There will also be two ticketed events taking place at the Palm House Café: a Santa workshop and a Snow Sisters Christmas party.

The Weymouth Community Christmas Committee - a non-profit organisation established earlier this year - said the fayre will bring together the feel of Christmasses past and present.

Nigel Sims-Duff, who is chairman of the committee and also the owner of the Palm House Café, said: "We chose a Victorian theme to give some identity, similar to the popular Victorian shownight that used to be held.

"It's the first event we've hosted of this type, so I'm both excited and nervous. It's been a lot of hard work but I'm now looking forward to it all coming together."

Mr Sims-Duff explained that due to a decision by the BID to hire an external events company, the Weymouth Community Christmas event has been scaled back. Original plans included a month-long Christmas market.

"We have since received funding from the BID and Weymouth Town Council, so I'd like to thank them for their support, as well as the Christmas committee, performers and advertisers."

The Victorian Fayre takes place on Saturday, December 14 from 10am-9pm, continuing on Sunday from 10am until 4pm.

For more information search for their Facebook page, 'Victorian Christmas Fayre,' or pick up a programme from shops and businesses around Weymouth.