BARTON's biggest event on the calendar will return at the weekend, with hundreds expected to turnout for the Oxford estate's annual bash. And organisers say it will be the best yet.

Bouncy castles, bingo and big bubbles will be available to all on Saturday as well as face painting, a football tournament and a hog roast.

Preparations are almost complete for the bash with organisers hoping the fun day will be the biggest and best in its 12-year history.

MP for Oxford East Andrew Smith will return to open the free event at midday.

Chief organiser Sue Holden, secretary of the Barton Community Association, said there were more activities than ever before available for the residents to take part in.

She added: "We hope it is the best and biggest bash we have ever had.

"All children's activities are free and we have a lot of new activities, including a sandwich bar and fruit kebab kitchen to promote healthy eating.

"We estimate between 800 and 1,000 people could turn out, the atmosphere will be great.

"Our aim for the bash is to have something for everyone, no-one is excluded so anyone can feel free to come down."

Mrs Holden added it was a good event to help isolated and lonely people in the community to find out about future events they could become involved in.

The stalls and activities will be dotted in and around the grounds of the Barton Neighbourhood Centre, in Underhill Circus from midday until 4.30pm.

As well as manicures, massages and a soft play area, firefighters from Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue, neighbourhood police officers and Barton Singers will also feature as part of the family occasion.

Mrs Holden thanked the event's sponsors which include BMW, Soha Housing, Oxford City Council, Tesco, Sainsbury's, Oxford United and Barton Park developers Grosvenor.

She added: "We are extremely grateful for all those companies that have supported us.

"Trying to deliver these sort of projects cannot happen without financial support, we are always open to sponsorship."

The food at this year's bash also aims to promote healthy eating on the estate by giving youngsters the chance to make their own healthy meals for free.

The move comes as part of the 'healthy new town' status Barton was given by NHS England as part of the Barton Park development.

Last year's Barton Bash paid tribute for community stalwart Barry Holden by raising funds for the British Heart Foundation.

For more information today's event, contact Sue Holden on 07866460446