THE stage is virtually set for the return of one of the biggest events in Colchester’s calendar.

Party in the Park returns to Castle Park this Friday and Saturday night and what a party it will be, according to organiser Don Quinn.

The line-up boasts an eclectic mix of acts ranging from headliners the New Town Kings, Great Totham’s Sam Callahan who was an X Factor finalist and top tribute acts.

Your Gazette is sponsoring the event and Monday’s paper will include an eight-page picture special.

Mr Quinn said: “Preparations are well in advance, it is all very exciting. The stage is being erected in a couple of days’ time.

“We have picked up some wonderful lights too, so that should be fun.

“The tickets are selling very well. I am very pleased about that. We have sold more in advance this year then we did when we held it a few years ago. We have got some really good acts this year too.”

Charities involved in the event include Help for Heroes, the Robin Cancer Trust, NSPCC and St Helena Hospice.

A family highlight will be the NSPCC’s musical statues at 5pm on Saturday which costs £1 per person to enter and aims to raise £2,000 for the charity.

Limited free event parking is available in Kings Meadow car park for which the postcode is CO1 1XS.