KINGS and queens, 17th century soldiers, brass bands and perhaps the odd Star Wars character will parade through an Oxfordshire village.

The traditional bank holiday Harwell Feast will return on Monday with thousands of people set to descend on the village.

After a grand parade of floats through the high street, visitors will enjoy live music, crafts, dog shows, and classic cars.

Sharon Palmer, a member of the organising committee, said they were hoping the weather holds and brings out many of the 4,000 visitors who attended last year.

Every year the feast raises money for good causes within the Harwell area and Mrs Palmer said this year the organisers have placed more of an emphasis on supporting charities.

A range of causes including Play2Give and the Didcot Animal Sanctuary have been offered a free pitch to talk to people about what they do.

The theme for this year’s feast is equality, celebrating 100 years since some women were given the vote after the campaign for suffrage.

Mrs Palmer said: “The adrenaline is really going now and the ten of us on the organising committee are just looking forward to it all getting under way.

“We’ve expanded the number of fairground rides and are hoping to attract more younger people and teenagers.

“It’s the biggest event of the year for the village and we’re looking forward to seeing everyone come out and celebrate with us.”

The feast will not be limited to one day this year with activities taking place all this weekend.

Anyone with an interest in history can attend an English Civil War camp set up on Sunday from 2pm to meet the Marquess of Winchester Regiment who will be dressed in full 17th century gear.

Award ceremonies and barn dances will also be held in the festival marquee ahead of the main events getting under way.

Mrs Palmer added: “Every year we try and think about what we can offer.

“The population of Harwell, along with much of this area, is growing considerably every year so there’s always more people who will be coming for the first time.

“If it is good weather we can expect up to 4,000 of people to come out.

“But even when it’s been raining in the past, the community has always come out to support us.

“We’re all volunteers and we do it to promote the village and all it has to offer as well as support as many good causes as we can.”

The Harwellian sports and social club will all be on hand to offer refreshments and up to 70 craft stalls have booked to attend and offer their wares.

Activities run up until 5pm and entry is dependent on buying a programme for £2 in advance or £3 on the day.