Shrovetide 2020 is finally here and Ashbourne is ready for thousands of people to descend on the town after days of preparations.
Shops are closed and many have been boarded up as owners attempt to limit any damage which could be caused during the two-day event.
And those who are taking part in the traditional Royal Shrovetide football match have gathered in the streets and in the pubs ahead of the ball being turned up, which marks the start of the two-day event.
Here are some pictures from Ashbourne showing the calm before the storm:
READ MORE: Live updates from day one of Ashbourne Royal Shrovetide 2020
