CHILDREN have been out in force across Oxfordshire celebrating their right to play.

Wednesday marked Playday, a national day which highlights the importance of play in children’s lives.

Events have been planned around the county all week, including a fun day at Barton.

Volunteers from the Roundabout Centre, in Headington, pitched up outside the shops in Underhill Circus, armed with facepaints and home made play dough.

Louise Wilkins, from the centre, said lots of families had passed by during the day.

She said: “It was a really good day.

A fun day was held in Bicester, where children could learn circus skills, use big sumo wrestling suits, and watch skating demonstrations, and Witney children took part in wall climbing and skate hockey at the Leys Recreation Ground.

Rachel Eccles, from the Roundabout Centre, said play was key in children’s development.

She said: “We plan activities for the school holidays, in our Stay and Play sessions.”

Meanwhile Bicester’s Garth Park was a sea of people as two events for youngsters proved a hit.

For the first time the annual Teddy Bears’ Picnic and a teenagers’ activity day were staged in the park at the same time.

Organised by Bicester Town Council and the Oxfordshire Play Association, OPA, the council reckoned about 2,000 people turned up.

Elsewhere Bicester’s mayor Rose Stratford had to choose the best dressed teddy bears.

The winners were Rex Wilson, four, pictured, with his Big Bear, and Ashley Buddin, seven.

Rex said: “It only took a short time to get my bear ready. I’m happy I won.”