GAZETTE & HERALD: ORGANISERS of the annual children's fun day in John Coles Park in Chippenham are hoping for fine weather as the big event approaches.

On Sunday the park will be taken over by families for the hugely popular occasion, which last year attracted thousands of people.

This year promises to be bigger and better than ever, with Mini Beasts from Bristol Zoo attending for the first time.

Emma King, Chippenham Town Council's events and PR manager, said now in its 15th year, the free fun day was becoming more and more established.

"We are expecting thousands of people again this year, but it is dependent on the weather," said Mrs King.

Highlights for the children include traditional swingboat and chair-o-plane rides, old-fashioned tea cups, inflatables, face painting, Punch and Judy shows, a farm corner, pony and cart rides, professional entertainers and a circus skills workshop.

North Wiltshire Model Aircraft Club will be displaying its planes and Chippenham Miniature Railway Society will be giving train rides.

There will be various competitions, including Chippenham Sea Cadets running a skittles contest, Chippenham Twinning Association playing boules and Chippenham Town youth football players in short matches.

Various charities will be running stalls at the event and the Ninjitsu club will be giving demonstrations.

The afternoon promises a relaxing afternoon for adults too, with a barbecue and music from Chippenham Town Band.

The fun day will be officially opened at 1pm by town mayor John Scragg.

Mrs King said: "The Mini Beasts should be great fun. We'll have giant snails, cockroaches, spiders, stick insects and, if it's warm enough, snakes.

"When the fun day originated 15 years ago it was to provide a low-cost traditional family day out for children who perhaps weren't going on holiday or just for a treat. We haven't lost touch with the traditional quality of the day.

"It's one of my favourite events to organise as it's such a fun day and always well supported. There are lots of things going on and it's good to see families out enjoying themselves in the wonderful surroundings of John Coles Park. Fingers crossed for good weather."

Mrs King said from next year, Chippenham Round Table would be taking over the organisation of the fun day.

As one of the event's sponsors the Gazette and Herald will be sending its very own mascot, Gilbert the Gator, to help proceedings along.

Other sponsors include Wavin Plastics and Leapfrog Nurseries.

"We are able to provide this event year on year because of the generous support from local businesses," said Mrs King. "Without them, it wouldn't be possible."

The fun day takes place from 1pm to 5pm. Entry is free.