Regency record set in Bath

Bonnets and parasols were thrown in the air as ladies and gentleman in Bath celebrated breaking a Guinness World Record.

As part of the city’s Jane Austen Festival, organisers decided to try to better the record for the largest gathering of people dressed in Regency costumes.

Some 409 people packed into the Assembly Rooms for the challenge, beating the current record of 200 set in the United States.

Visitors to the city would have been forgiven for thinking they had stepped back in time, as characters from the popular 18th and 19th century novels were bought to life.

Mr Darcy joined Catherine Morland and Emma Woodhouse to parade through the streets from the Roman Baths to the Assembly Rooms, before finishing in Queen Square.

They were joined by a town crier, naval personnel and musicians, along with re-enactment groups including the 32nd Cornwall Regiment.

Tamzin Frazier, from Odd Down, donned a long dress and a bonnet for the parade.

She said: “I have always loved Jane Austen’s books and thought I would come along today to take part in the record attempt.

“My favourite novel is Pride and Prejudice.

“The era really suits Bath, it is a classic and elegant city.”

People came from far and wide to show their love for all things Austen.

Jessica Bartlett, aged 32, travelled from London to take part in the event.

She said: “I have wanted to do something like this for ages, and this year I finally got round to it.

“I love the Jane Austen era, everyone was so civil and had lovely manners.

“It was a period that was full of culture, grace and elegance.”

The star of the show was little Braden Sullenberger, aged one, who had flown in from Pennsylvania with his mum Lisa and dad Greg.

The tiny tot was dressed in a miniature version of his dad's costume, with breeches, a neck tie and a long coat.

Lisa said: “I made most of Braden’s outfit, and think he looks really sweet.

“We came to Bath for a summer holiday especially to take part in the record attempt.”

One couple from Suffolk took their love for the writer who lived in the city one step further, and used the day to get married.

Ian Charlesworth and Kelly Walpole were declared man and wife in a Regency wedding at the Guildhall.

The happy couple were joined by friends and family, and other festival-goers all in Regency attire.

After the vows were exchanged wedding photos were taken outside the Royal Crescent and a volley of shots were fired by the Cornwall Regiment.

Ian, a salesman, said: “We wanted to do something unusual and special for our big day.

“We are both big Jane Austen fans, so what better than to get married during the festival and be surrounded by hundreds of people dressed in Regency costume?"

The Jane Austen Festival organised by the city's Jane Austen Centre goes on until Sunday September 27.

Visitors can enjoy the delights of a traditional country fair, or relax with Regency style dining.

The more energetic can take part in a guided tour of Bath, visiting places featured in Northanger Abbey and Persuasion, or learn 18th century dances.

For more information and tickets contact the Bath festival box office on 01225 463362 or visit www.janeausten.co.uk/festival.