People out and about in Melbourn yesterday may have been left confused when they saw punters dressed in early 20th century period costume re-enacting lines from Ulysses.

Royston Crow: Liz Williams, Beryl Monk and Yvonne ChamberlainLiz Williams, Beryl Monk and Yvonne Chamberlain (Image: Archant)

It was all in aid of Bloomsday – which celebrates the exact day, June 16, during which the action of the novel was set – and all money raised was donated to charity Water Aid, which provides clean water to poor countries.

Melbourn Parish Council chairman Bob Tulloch said: “We are delighted to be associated with Bloomsday.

“We value all such volunteer-led, community wide, cultural activities.

“I personally am very happy to launch and participate in this day of celebration.”

Royston Crow: The Brind String QuartetThe Brind String Quartet (Image: Archant)

A crowded calendar of 16 free events was organised by the Melbourn Bloomsday Celebration Group, including many re-enactments of scenes from the novel – which follows a day in the life of protagonist Leopold Bloom as he walks around Dublin in 1904.

Royston Crow: Peter KarnerPeter Karner (Image: Archant)

Royston Crow: Hugh PollockHugh Pollock (Image: Archant)