PREPARATIONS are in hand for this year’s Old Town Festival – a highlight of the community calendar.

The event, which will run between Friday, June 5 and Sunday, June 14, is set to feature a raft of attractions and events, and organisers are pushing on with plans.

It is organised by a team of volunteers chaired by Josie Williams, community arts development officer at Commonweal School.

And she said there were a number of ways the community could get involved throughout the festival.

“The week-long festival has much to offer, from pop and rock bands, community acts, fairground rides, a dog show organised by Swindon Needy Dogs, a demonstration by the local knight school, organised walks, apiano recital by the much-loved local and internationally acclaimed pianist Paul Turner to a pub quiz and guided walks, stalls galore, local food and a licensed bar,” said Josie.

Among the highlights is the festival parade, which will take place in Wood Street on Sunday, June 7, followed by a family fun day on The Lawn, with Josie calling on anyone interested in taking part to get in touch.

“This year sees the return of the festival parade, where groups can showcase their talents and promote their clubs,” she said.

The festival is run in partnership with Commonweal School, the Swindon Advertiser, Screaming Media, the Old Town Business Association and Swindon Borough Council.

Anyone wishing to host a stall at the family fun day event on June 7 should email Victor Chamberlain at victor.chamberlain@sjp.co.uk, or download an application form from the festival website at www.oldtownfestival.co.uk.

Prices are £35 for businesses and £25 for charities.

Josie said: “The event attracts footfall of around 15,000 people, making it well worth taking part, but places are limited so it is advisable to get your stall booked sooner than later.”

Entry in the parade costs £20. For more details either log on to the website or contact Katie Langan via email at katie.leanne.sarah.langan@gmail.com