THOUSANDS of Goths from around the country visited Whitby this weekend for the 25th alternative music festival.

Whitby Goth Weekend launched in 1994 and is dedicated to non-conformity and diversity.

The three-day event sees thrillseekers don dark and gothic fancy dress for a weekend of ghoulish fun.

This year’s line-up featured performances from Chasing Dragons, Heavier than a Heavy Thing and Burty’s Big Stick of Rock.

Live DJs also entertained guests who visited the famous festival.

Up to 10,000 people descend on the town every year and this year Whitby’s swing bridge had to be temporarily closed to prevent gridlock between vehicles and pedestrians.

The bi-annual event is estimated to bring in £1.1million for the town’s local economy every year, and has generated thousands for charities such as the Bat Conservation trust and the Sophie Lancaster Foundation.

The next Goth weekend will take place from October 25 to October 27.

Visit whitbygothweekend.co.uk