A bigger and better line-up than ever is planned for this year's South Woodham Spectacular.

Organisers are hoping to smash last year's profits of £5,000 at the event to be held at St Joseph's Primary School on Saturday, July 10 from 12-5pm.

Highlights this year include a Chelmer FM roadshow, and visits from former England goalkeeper, Peter Shilton and Ipswich Town Football Club players.

Organised by St Joseph's PTA, this year's event will be raising money for the library and a new computer suite for the school. "Preparations are going swimmingly - it's full steam ahead," said Siobhan Haynes from the PTA.

"We're anticipating a bigger turn-out than ever this year as we have so many fantastic events on offer. The emphasis is on keeping the prices down to make the events accessible to everyone.

"It's going to be a fantastic day with something for all the family."

Taking the theme of Chelmsford through the ages, children will dress up in costumes from different eras.

Young footballers will have the chance to take part in a workshop led by the Ipswich team and to participate in five-a-side football and penalty shoot-out competitions with Peter Shilton.

Line-dancing, trampolining, craft stalls, a real ale tent and barbecue will be on offer. Displays will be given by the Woodham Majorettes and choral group, Choirwood, and Essex Wildlife and Marsh Farm will have stands.

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