South Weald is gearing itself up for this year's village festival, with a millennium spin.

The South Weald Festival runs from Friday June 30 to Sunday July 2, with events taking place at St Peter's School, St Peter's Church and at other locations in the village.

Festival chairman, Chris Luck, said: "We've been working hard and can't wait for it to start."

It opens with a spectacular 1,000 balloon launch by children at the school in Wigley Bush Lane on the Friday afternoon.

Later there is a preview art show and cheese and wine evening at the church, with the tower open for visitors to enjoy the magnificent view.

On the Saturday St Peter's School holds its annual fete, with the infant children holding an animal mask parade to be judged by Jill Watson from the RSPCA. There will be a host of stalls and attractions and even a circus workshop, plus line dancing and singing displays in the arena.

On Saturday and Sunday the church will be open, with bell ringing, ploughman's lunches, the art exhibition and brass rubbings.

One of the highlights of the festival will be the millennium playlets around the village on Sunday, performances relating the history of the village.

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