EARLIER this month, The Pill Owls dressed up in Dickensian costumes for a "long standing tradition" hosted by a Portishead funeral directors.

Dressed in top hats and flowy cloaks, the carol singers provided entertainment at the remembrance event, which was designed to help spread Christmas cheer and give residents an opportunity to remember those who have passed away.

F H Halliday & Sons ran the event from their High Street premises.

Glyn Lawrence, a direct descendant of the Halliday family, said: "This event is a long standing tradition which we hope anyone feeling lonely and finding this time of year particularly difficult will find some comfort in."

Guests were encouraged to give donations to Portishead fire fighters' charity.

Younger residents had the chance to meet Father Christmas himself, whilst other attendees wrote their memories of those they have lost on a Christmas star, which was then hung on the tree at the funeral directors.

One attendee said: "The children loved seeing Santa and The Pill Owls, the hog roast went down a treat and the mulled wine kept the adults warm. There was a real sense of community, I sincerely hope this tradition continues well in to the future."