A HELTER-SKELTER wowed families this weekend for the 150th anniversary of the GWR Children’s Fete.

It was a return to tradition for the fete held in GWR Park, Faringdon Road, organised by the Mechanics’ Institution Trust (MIT), and back from a one-year hiatus.

Crowds gathered in the sunshine to watch an afternoon of entertainment including the Crowdys Hill school choir, Goan folk dance, and Swindon Young Musicians.

There was an array of entertainment on offer with beach volleyball, circus tricks, face painting and slack-lining available for children to try.

Craft workshops, food tents with toffee apples and candyfloss and stalls from groups including Eastcott Community Organisation, Swindon Dance and the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust were also on display.

Live music followed featuring bands The Shudders, The Tribe and We say Goodnight taking to the stage.

Stacey Dart, from Grange Park attended with husband Jon and daughters Romy, eight and seven-year-old Lyla.

“I think it’s a great idea. It’s all about the girls and them having fun today. They’ve loved the magic show and it’s great being in the sunshine.

Cathy Fielden from Royal Wootton Bassett attended with husband, daughters Rosie, 13 and Amy, five. Clarinettist Rosie performed with Swindon Young Musicians.

“We’re very proud to be here supporting Rosie,” said Cathy, “it’s her first performance with SYM and we’re looking forward to supporting her

A tradition that dates back to 1866 was also revived much to the delight of waiting children with 1,000 free cupcakes handed out courtesy of the Swindon WI.

Emma Parsons, from Haydon Wick took her four-year-old son Jacob along as an early birthday treat. He took part in the circus skills course run by Falding’s Fandangos.

“Jacob has loved it here today, he said it was the best day of his life. He’s had a toffee apple and got to learn how to juggle and do a diablo so he’s chuffed,” said Emma.

Daniel Rose, MIT chair, revealed the event took nearly a year to plan

“This is about returning to tradition which is why there is a helter skelter which is difficult to get hold of and the tradition of giving free cake to every child. This is a real family event and Swindon needs something like this. There’s something for everyone here.”

The very first children’s fete was held in 1866 by the workers of the Great Western Railway workers and at the Mechanics’ Institution in the railway village.

It grew over the years and at one time drew more than 38,000 Swindonians with big-name headlines acts and dazzling performers – including French tightrope-walker Charles Blondin.

It ran right up until the start of the Second World War and was resurrected by the Mechanics’ Institution Trust in 2003.