FAMILIES danced away their bank holiday as a heart-warming event for all ages returned to Witney.

More than 1,000 people attended Cogges Manor Farm's family festival last Monday, with a series of attractions setting up stall in the shadow of the historic house.

Children dressed up as jesters and practiced their juggling skills, while local bands provided the soundtrack to the festivities.

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Among the activities arranged for the annual event were the usual Cogges attractions, including the farm's animals, who were a hit with younger visitors.

It was only the festival's second year, but its huge popularity highlighted the farm's success at making itself a 'meeting point' for people of all ages.

Colin Shone, the farm's director, said: "We really like doing events that bring together generations and we want this to grow. This is one of our favourite activity days.

"The weather has been on our side but we've made improvements to the site over the winter. It's part of always looking at what we can do better."

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Children were spellbound by performances from a children's entertainer, while others got stuck into arts and crafts inside the manor house.

The Reelpot Band, Ducklington Morris and Witney Town Band put on a show for families, many of whom joined in with the country dancing as the day wore on.

Although the family festival was an example of the well-attended 'event days' at Cogges, Mr Shone revealed the farm was proving popular throughout the week.

He said: "We're doing well, not just on event days. Cogges is in a good shape and we're looking forward to the future."

The farm introduced several new additions for 2019, including the first lambs born on site and an under 5s area.

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These additions have enabled the attraction to remain a go-to for families in the Witney area, along with the dozens of volunteers who help the small team of staff keep the site ticking over.

Attentions now turn to the Steam and Country Show, the farm's next big event, which takes place on Father's Day.

Meanwhile, many people will be looking forward to the eagerly-awaited Cogges Beer and Cider Festival, which takes place over the weekend of July 26 and 27.