AS picnic season gets into full swing, teddy bears will this year be dragging their children and parents to the Old Town Bowl this week for a special Picnic in the Park event.

The annual event, which is part of Old Town's Little Big Festival, is an opportunity for local school children to showcase their musical and dance talents on a professional stage.

This year, the afternoon will kick off with performances from Lethbridge Dance Club, which is run by students at Commonweal School as part of their Arts Award programme.

Dancing will be followed by singing, when solo singing performances from Joey Pugh and Thea Grant, both from Lethbridge, and a special guest appearance by Little Miss Daisy will feature.

“Little Miss Daisy comes from a family of performers and was just born to perform,” said Josie Williams, community arts development officer at Commonweal School.

“The Picnic in the Park is a lovely way to celebrate the end of the school year and is an opportunity for families to come and watch their loved ones perform.

"It is a great confidence boost for them and it takes a lot of courage to be up in front of a lot of people."

At 3.50pm there will be a performance from Lainesmead Primary School, followed by The Kitty Langan Studio sing and dance at 4.10pm.

Then, at 4.30pm, The Romanska Performing Arts Academy will take to the stage followed by a showcase of music and dance clubs at Commonweal School at 4.50pm.

Teresa School of Dance will grace the boards at 5.50pm followed at 6.10pm with the Bigsingthing.

The event is supported by Lethbridge Primary School, which is situated next to the Town Gardens.

“We are very proud to be part of the Old Town community and Lethbridge Primary School will be running a refreshment stall selling a selection of cupcakes and cold drinks," said Josie.

"These will range from juice cartons to fizzy drinks. Come along and support us and this wonderful event.”