THOUSANDS of people are expected to descend on Blackbird Leys park on Saturday for the largest Leys Fair ever.

Final preparations are being made for the return of the event following a two-year break.

Organisers say the free day out will have “something for everyone”.

Zorb balls – giant orbs which which thrill-seekers can step inside and roll around – will have a starring role.

Children can take part in sports tasters, and there will even be a pizza-making course for future Gordon Ramsays to try their hand.

This year local performers from bands to majorettes will strut their stuff in hopes of making it the most colourful Leys Fair in history.

The event was cancelled in 2011 following a lack of interest after organisers pulled out.

But this year, having consulted residents, Blackbird Leys Parish Council decided to help resurrect the fun day.

It pledged £5,000, with another £5,000 from Oxford City Council to cover costs.

Oxfordshire Play Association, which has hosted several events across the city including last July’s Blackbird Leys play, were brought on board to co-ordinate.

Steering groups have held several meetings to find out what local residents wanted to see to make sure the fair survived.

The fair will be held at Blackbird Leys Park from noon until 4pm.

Oxfordshire Play Association spokeswoman Jane Gallagher said: “Everything is in place now and we are all sorted.

“It’s hugely exciting and we are very proud to see such a variety of events.

“We have over 80 things planned for the day and there will be something for everyone, be they children, teenagers or older people.

“It won’t be an expensive day out either. That is the main thing.

“We hope that as many people will turn out as possible.”

Parish Council chairman Gordon Roper added: “After speaking to local people we brought it back with the help of Val Churchill from the city council, and this year it promises to be the biggest one we’ve ever held.

“I’ve seen the layout and it will be the biggest Leys Fair in history.

“So let’s hope we get the good weather and the turnout to go along with it.”

Residents are advised that the park will be busy from 9am as stallholders and activity providers set up.

This may impact on traffic nearby.