WITH at least 5000 people expected to enjoy the festivities of this year s Dunmow Flitch Trials, there will need to be plenty going on to keep everyone entertained. Fortunately a hardworking committee has secured a vast variety of stalls, performances and

WITH at least 5000 people expected to enjoy the festivities of this year's Dunmow Flitch Trials, there will need to be plenty going on to keep everyone entertained.

Fortunately a hardworking committee has secured a vast variety of stalls, performances and attractions to please the crowds in the periods between the main events of the day, the three Flitch Trials.

Jackie Martin, field events manager, said there would be no shortage of activities available for visitors of all ages, whether they lingered around the marquee and the arena or wandered out into the town.

"We've got so much entertainment this year," she said, "with displays, performances, stalls and games.

"In the arena, to name a few, we're going to have performances by the St Mary's Junior School steel band, the karate club, the Dunmow Majorettes and children from the Arts Centre in Haslers Yard.

"Elsewhere, in the Market Place and by the side of the Doctor's Pond, you'll be able to watch the Chelmsford Morris Men and a performance by some lady clog dancers. The pond itself will be full of model boats, courtesy of Brentwood Model Boat Club."

The stalls at the Dunmow Flitch Trials belong exclusively to local organisations and charities, as the event is designed to support the local community. Organic fruit and vegetables will be available, as well as jams, fudges and even soap made from the milk of local goats.

If the weather on Saturday July

12 resembles the sunshine we

have seen this week, the turnout for the Flitch Trials should be close to five figures.

Mrs Martin said: "In 2004 we must have had between 5000 and 8000 people, coming and going throughout the day. As the event lasts from 10am to 10pm, people come and go - the seating for the trials alone accommodates 1500 people.

"And we've been really impressed with the amount of people wanting to perform, or help out in some way. I think everyone wants to get involved with this very important part of Dunmow's history."

The Broadcast will be represented at the Flitch, with a stall providing the base for the Spot the Pig competition. This will involve children filling in a form every time they spot a fluffy pig in the show windows in Dunmow high street. And there is still room for a very small number of extra stalls and stands - strictly for local groups.

To find out more about what is available call Jackie Martin on 01371 872404 - any offers of help on the day of the Flitch will also be appreciated.