THOUSANDS of people are set to attend an annual summer festival this weekend.

The Friends of St James' Park are set to host the event at the park in Shirley which has now taken place for the past two years today from 10am until 4pm.

Hilde Gronsbergy who has helped to organise the event said: "This is a fantastic fun filled event for the whole family; an opportunity for people to come together to make the most of the park and to enjoy activities and entertainment laid on by local businesses, groups, charities and community projects."

Hilde said that this is set to be the "biggest one day event" for the park.

There will be two stages with dance and theatre performances as well as 45 stalls from local businesses, charities and organisations.

The NHS will also be there doing blood testing.

Guests will also be able to take part in a wide variety of festival activities at the marquee including baby yoga and martial arts.

New for this year's event is a collaboration between Foundry Lane, Wordsworth, Shirley Infant and Junior and Hollybrook Infant and Junior schools in a choir performance

More than 175 children will take part in the performance at 10.30am

Guests who attend are recommended to bring their own blankets and chairs.

When asked why people should attend Hilde said: "Its all about being proud of Shirley .

"It is important to know your local community and make each other stronger and also have fun.

"Also the weather is set to be great."

Friends of St James’ Park is a charity run and supported by a group of volunteers who aim to celebrate and enhance the life of the park and to bring communities together.

For more information contact events@fosjp.org.uk