WITH the fine summer weather finally here, there is no better time to head down to the town centre for a party and a parade.

Sunday will see Wharf Green packed with performers and entertainment as Swindon celebrates the annual St George’s Day Festival.

The event, organised by inSwindon, will get under way from 11am.

Visitors will be welcomed and entertained by the host of the festival, the mischievous court jester.

The cheeky chappie has promised to please the crowds with his traditional children’s games, and balloon modelling fun.

With free face painting for the little ones there is sure to be fun on offer for all the family.

And, as if that wasn’t enough, local musicians and singers will be performing live on the main stage throughout the day.

The public will get to meet St George and his famous dragon and the bravest and strongest among them may even be asked to help rescue a damsel in distress.

But watch where you walk, Swindon has been assured of a visit by juggling medieval knights on stilts and they can be a handful.

The highlight of the day for many will be the St. George’s Day parade.

Participants will gather at the cenotaph for 12.30pm. The procession will then move off down to Regent Street and Canal Walk before finishing at Wharf Green.

Organisers are inviting schools, community groups and families to come along and join in. The wearing of fancy dress and the waving of flags is encouraged.

A free arts and crafts zone will be located at Central Library from 11am until 12.15pm where children can make their own knight’s shield for the parade.

Last year’s St George’s Day Festival saw the first Best Of Swindon Talent Competition and this year it is coming back - bigger and better than before.

Eight great local acts have been chosen from the many that auditioned.

They will take to the stage at 2pm for the chance to be crowned the best in the town.

Di Powell, the Chief Executive of inSwindon, said: “We are so excited that the Best Of Swindon Talent Competition is back.

“Last year’s winner Phoebe was incredible and we can’t wait for her to open the competition for 2017.

“This is an ideal opportunity for the people of Swindon to showcase their talents.

“Retailers will also have a number of ‘Best of British’ promotions on.”