ORGANISERS of the annual Elstree and Borehamwood civic festival say they are aiming to make it bigger and better than ever before.

Festivities will kick off with the carnival parade on Saturday, June 18, before a fortnight of 40 or so events take place around the town.

Events co-ordinator at the town council, Ash Tadjrishi, said one of the highlights will include a huge free outdoor Families Day, in Meadow Park on July 2.

An extreme stunt show called the Vander Brothers' Wheel of Death will wow residents as two performers rotate steel cages at increasing speed round a central axis.

There will also be a performance by the Essex Dogs Display Team, a giant inflatable slide, stalls and other exhibitions.

Ash Tadjrishi said: “Having so many local groups and talented individuals in our town makes organising the Festival a very enjoyable process.

“We try hard to make sure there’s something for everyone and with the diverse community around us we’re always looking to get even more people involved.”

However, one event that didn't make the cut this year was the long running baby show.

Ash explained: “The town council wanted to include as many young children as possible and although the baby show was a well-loved bit of fun we felt that it didn’t really reflect current trends.

“Working with the Borehamwood and Elstree Children’s Centre means that we are able to offer something new that is more inclusive as well as for a wider age group.”

The event is now called Sticky Kids and is open to all parents with children up to the age of 5 years old.

There will be games, music and a puppet show, and will be a chance for families with young children to play and meet in a free friendly environment.

For more information on The 55th Annual Elstree and Borehamwood Civic Festival, including how you can take part in the Parade, contact the Town Council on 020 8207 1382.