BARTON Bash will return this year with an extra reason to celebrate the community's spirit.

When the annual festival takes place on September 30, the occasion will also mark 25 years since the Barton Neighbourhood Centre, in Underhill Circus, was first opened.

And Oxford East MP Andrew Smith is expected to open the estate's biggest event on the calendar - just like he opened the community building in October 1992.

Members of the community association hope this year's bash will be extra special with the added silver anniversary celebrations.

Children, parents and grandparents are invited to take part in the activities, which include bouncy castles, bingo and a range of food and drink stalls.

Community secretary Sue Holden said she could remember the day the existing neighbourhood centre was opened when she ran Holden's Newsagents with late husband Barry on the estate.

The 68-year-old added: "We chose the date, but after doing some investigation we found out the building was opened in October and then realised it was Andrew Smith who actually opened the building.

"I was not involved at the time, but it was very much liked by local people. Prior to what we have now was an old hut. It was crumbling."

Mrs Holden said residents campaigned for Oxford City Council to building the community centre, she added was the 'hub' of the estate and was still vibrant with activities for all.

Now, the community secretary and other staff at the centre are currently planning all the elements to make the Barton Bash as successful as previous years.

About 1,000 people filled the Neighbourhood Centre in September last year to enjoy the event which was in its tenth year.

It boasted bouncy castles, bingo and big bubbles as well as face painting, cake decorating and a hog roast.

The centre was decked out in world flags, which Mrs Holden added emphasised the diversity and togetherness of the people of Barton.

A 'Welcome to Barton' sign was also unveiled at the estate's entrance near the Green Road roundabout.

This year's bash will run from midday to 4.30pm on Saturday, September 30.

The Bash aims to have something for everyone - no-one is excluded and anyone is urged to come along.

Oxford East MP Mr Smith said: "It will be an honour again to open the Barton Bash, all the more so to celebrate quarter of century of the excellent facilities and activities provided by the centre, which is the good heart of a wonderful community."

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