30 fabulous pictures as Eastbourne Steampunk Festival returns

The Wish Tower Slopes were packed as the event celebrated the 25th anniversary of Eastbourne Bonfire Society – the festival’s organisers.

Steampunk began as a sub-genre of science fiction literature, drawing inspiration from 19th century authors like Jules Verne, H.G. Wells and Mary Shelley.

It imagines a world where, like in the Victorian era, steam power is still our primary source of energy, with futuristic technological inventions blended with the more polite elements of Victorian society.

On Saturday (September 5), the Stix Drummers led the parade from Victoria Place to the Wish Tower, while the Eastbourne Scottish Pipe Band led it from the Pier on Sunday (September 6).

Herald readers shared their praise for the festival, with Graeme Conway commenting after Saturday’s event: “What a great day and fantastic atmosphere, will be ready to do it all again tomorrow.”

And George Stevens added: “Fantastic, love it in these difficult times, well done everybody.”

Take a look at 30 fantastic pictures taken on Saturday.