Those looking for an action-packed Easter weekend will be well provided with activities in the Chelmsford area.

The Procession of Witnesses, joining together churches from across Chelmsford will take place on Good Friday.

The groups will be led up Chelmsford High Street by the Salvation Army Band, before attending a service at Chelmsford Cathedral at 11am.

On Saturday, Essex FM will be bringing its madcap roadshow to Chelms-ford High Street, the finale to a week of circus themed holiday fun.

The show, presented by Martin Day, will feature performances from Essex boyband Skandal, who have just completed a sell-out tour supporting Five plus new girl group Kick Angel and Friends, the latest boy-girl pop combination.

There will also be the opportunity to try out some circus skills, coached by professionals at the big top outside the Meadows Shopping Centre.

The fun takes place between 3pm and 4pm by the town sign.

Marsh Farm in South Woodham Ferrers has put together a whole programme of events for the weekend. An Easter Egg hunt runs throughout Sunday and Monday, with a chocolate egg prizes for everyone who completes the trail.

The Penny Farthing Craft Fair, featuring over 50 different stallholders, will also be in attendance, as will Michael J. Fitch who will be delighting children with his Magic Extravaganza Show. For more details ring 01245 324191.

An Easter Bonnet Parade will take place at Hylands House in Chelmsford on Easter Sunday, where for just £1 you will have the chance to design and model your own Easter creation in the parade at 2.30pm.

On Monday, another traditional Easter activity will be celebrated with the judging of the Easter egg competition, entry costs £1 and eggs should be delivered to the house by 12 noon for judging at 2.30pm. Further details on 01245 606396/606812

It will be full steam ahead at Barleylands Farm Museum in Billericay on Sunday and Monday, between 10am and 5pm, when they hold their Easter Steam Up.

Activities include farm animals, the new chick hatchery, miniature steam railway, tractor and trailer rides, donkey rides, plus children's entertainment. Call 01268 282090.

Following the steam theme is Mangapps Railway at Burnham on Crouch, open from Friday until Monday. Visitors will be able to enjoy steam train rides as well as visiting the museum. Call 01621 784898.

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