Crowds took shelter from the rain on Chester Rows on Thursday to watch the city's history come alive.

Roman soldiers paraded through the streets in celebration of Saturnalia while medieval revellers scared people with their spooky creations for the annual Winter Watch.

The Emperor Domitian, played by Chester Cathedral's Nicholas Fry, made a proclamation before unleashing the Lord of Misrule.

The two epochs of Chester's historic past welded well together with a touch of tomfoolery, flaming torches and fire breathing.

The pagan feast of Saturnalia was the feast was when our Roman visitors commemorated the dedication of the temple of the god Saturn.

It was originally celebrated in Ancient Rome for only a day on December 17 but it was so popular it extended to a week, from December 17 to 23 despite Augustus’ efforts to reduce it to three days, and Caligula’s, to five.

Dating from the 1400’s Chester’s Winter Watch Parade was held at Christmas. Leaders would hand over the keys to the city to the City Watch (early police force) after processing around to ensure it was secure.

There followed a banquet and celebration of Christmas, knowing the city was safe.