Grey clouds and spots of rain could not put off the procession to Ilfracombe of Jack-in-the Green to welcome summer.

Preceded by Ilfracombe’s town crier and followed by a procession including drummers and morris dancers, the revellers made their way to the seafront.

A good crowd turned out to watch the celebrations . . .

. . . including the world’s tallest person or shortest lamppost . . .

Then we enjoyed the beer festival in the Landmark Theatre and the music . . .

While Ilfracombe may give the impression that nothing much happens over winter, in reality there’s a lot going on, especially preparation for the year ahead.

This weekend the Landmark Beer Festival is in full swing and on Monday 4th May, the Jack-in-the-Green celebration takes place with children dancing round the Maypole, morris dancing, music and, of course, Jack-in-the-Green himself welcoming summer.

In addition, Ilfracombe Victorian Celebration launches its 24-page colour 2009 programme packed with over 50 Victorian-themed events from 6th to 14th June 2009. Committee members in Victorian dress will be distributing copies and they will also be available through local outlets in the run-up to and during the week-long celebration.

You can download a PDF version of the programme (2.8 Mb) or view details of all events on the online events diary at the Ilfracombe Victorian Celebration web site.