EXCITEMENT is growing for this year's Barton Bash as organisers keep their fingers crossed for good weather and a great turn-out.

The free day of family activities returns this Saturday to be enjoyed by hundreds of families who will come together at the heart of the estate.

The occasion will also mark the first time that many will visit the revamped Barton Neighbourhood Centre in Underhill Circus.

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The hub, which now hosts a new doctors’ surgery, also boasts a plaque on to the wall marking the visit of Prince Harry earlier in the year.

With days to go until the event, organisers are putting together the final touches to what will be the 14th annual bash.

This year's event will be officially opened by Oxford East Labour MP Anneliese Dodds at midday.

See also: Pictures of last year's Barton Bash

Bouncy castles, bingo and a raffle will return for revellers to enjoy, but new attractions include an owl display and an exotic fruit stand.

The green stall will be put on for youngsters who will be able to win prizes for correctly guessing the names of fruits hanging of the specially designed palm tree.

The idea is that children will each get a kebab stick to squish as much juicy fruit on as possible.

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It will also be the second year that Sagalouts play live for the event.

Sue Holden, who co-organises the event with Tanya Field, said there was something for all.

Ms Holden said: “We have witnessed it grow year on year ever since it started.

“We originally set out to provide just an afternoon of fun activities and wherever possible make them free of charge.

“We are totally reliant on the weather as this will determine how many people come along to enjoy all that is on offer.

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“Without tempting fate, we have never been hit by bad weather, so fingers crossed for some sunshine on Saturday.”

The team will are also appealing for unwanted children’s books on a mission to open another library.

She explained: “If anybody has children’s books in good conditions that they no longer need then please bring them along on Saturday and deposit them at our book station. This is our way of encouraging children to become involved in their library and use the resources.”

Ms Holden has been organising the bash since its creation and said what made it special was its firm local roots.

She added that organisers were proud of being able to of being able to put on the event entirely for free thanks for the sponsorship from local businesses including Oxford Bus Company and national chains like McDonald’s and BMW.

She said: “It would all be impossible without the generosity.”

The event will run from 12pm to 4.30pm.