MINI Marvel characters descended on Roves Farm on Saturday as the annual Superhero School returned for a third year in a row.

It was the first day of a week long family fun extravaganza in which children were invited to dress as superheroes and undertake the farm’s daunting obstacle course.

Those who complete the course were awarded a certificate to acknowledge their newly acquired superhero status.

Children were entertained by the bravest hero of them all, Captain Underpants – or 28-year-old farm hand Ricky Bailey, as he’s most commonly known.

“All week we’re encouraging people to come in dressed as superheroes and participate in the superhero assault course,” said Ricky, just before his miraculous transformation into Captain Underpants.

“I’m here to entertain the kids, make them laugh and guide them through the course. It involves a lot of ducking, diving and dodging and it’s great to see their faces at the end when they get a certificate.”

Part of Ricky’s act involves entering a Portaloo and emerging, to thunderous applause, as Captain Underpants.

It’s the third time the farm has hosted the event and it’s easily one of their busiest of the summer.

Ricky, who spent most of Friday amusing the children by dressing as a caterpillar, said: “The kids absolutely love it. They’re usually shouting and laughing the whole time and really enjoying themselves.”

Eight-year-old Jack Melia, dressed as Superman for the day, said: “I’m really excited to be a superhero today.”

Shaun Bainbridge, 7, said: “I’m going to do the obstacle course and see Captain Underpants. I’ve had a lot of fun so far.”