The Children’s Fete returns to Faringdon Road Park this weekend after celebrating its 150th anniversary last year.

Swindon’s oldest summer event kicks off at midday on Saturday with an official opening by the Mayor at 12.30pm.

There will be performances from Crowdy's School Choir, the Urban Youth Dance Academy, Swindon Lightning Cheerleaders, Britannia Majorettes, Little Red Rooster, Roy & Funra’s Circus Show, local band S’Go and more throughout the day

Event co-ordinator Tom Falding said: “Funding has been a little tricky this year as some of the grants we received last year weren’t available again, but despite this we think we’ve done a great job at pulling together some really exciting entertainment and activities for the day.”

There will also be funfair rides including a traditional carousel, circus workshops from Falding’s Fandangos, arts and crafts workshops run by Artsite, sports activities by the Swindon Wildcats and Swindon Community Tennis Club, a maypole kindly borrowed from Lower Shaw Farm, and stallholders from local charities and community groups.

Then more bands will perform in the evening until 8pm with food, refreshments and a bar serving throughout the day.

Children will be offered cake when they arrive in accordance with one of the event’s traditions.

The Mechanics Institution Trust are looking for additional people who might be able to get involved in helping steward at the event.

MIT trustee Hannah Parry said: “We really want to build the event back up so it can take place every year again for current and future generations to enjoy and benefit from.

“To do this we’re going to need to rely more and more on local sponsorship to make the event possible, so if you’re a local business interested in sponsoring this wonderful event please get in touch.”

Anyone who wants to help out should email thechildrensfete@mechanics-trust.org.uk or call 01793 520592.