A FESTIVAL of fun is being held in West Malvern to celebrate the golden jubilee of the Queen's coronation.

One of the centrepieces of the weekend event is a re-enactment of a village sports day held in 1887 to mark the golden jubilee of Queen Victoria.

On Sunday, June 22, West Malvern's playing field will be the venue for a variety of events including wheelbarrow races, sack races and three-legged races.

John Raine, chairman of the parish council's festival committee, said: "Someone who lives in Winchcombe found a copy of the poster for the original sports day and Laurie Gregory, chairman of the friends of the church, had copies made and distributed as a souvenir.

"That inspired us to arrange a recreation of the event. It incorporates the primary school's sports day, but we've also added some open events for older children and adults."

The previous day, the playing field will be the site of a festival fete, being opened by Lady Morrison at 2pm. It includes, gymnastic displays, stalls, games and refreshments.

"It's appropriate that Lady Morrison is our special guest because it was her predecessor at Madres-field Court, Earl Beau-champ, who donated the playing field to the village," said Coun Raine.

Other activities will include a flower festival at the church, exhibition of memorabilia and old photographs at the village hall and a display of children's art at the primary school.

There will also be a music-hall event, barn dance and barbecue, and folk and contemporary music.

Proceeds will be divided between West Malvern Cricket Club, Church Fabric Fund, Macmillan Cancer Relief and other local causes.

Further details are available on www.westmalvern. org.uk.