ONE of Essex's largest and most popular family events will return to Horndon on the Hill on June 24th & 25th.

Horndon on the Hill Feast & Fayre – a traditional event that harks back to mediaeval times when King John granted the village permission to stage a 'mighty feast' in the Magna Carta - was revived back in the seventies and celebrates the 40th year since its revival this year.

The theme of the event will be 'Merrie England' and a host of entertainment, art and fun activities is promised alongside the many craft and food stalls that will line the village streets.

Shows, musicians and events already lined up include: a street boat race, wandering minstrels, a village ukulele band, Magna Carta Street theatre from the Complete Commedia Company and both pubs, The Swan and The Bell, will be laying on live music, a beer festival and a hog roast. On Sunday 25th, the highly popular Horndon 10k organised by Thurrock Harriers will host runners from all over the South East and the event finale will again be the annual Tug of War between the two pubs.

Alongside the Feast & Fayre, St Peter & St Paul village church will stage its annual Flower Festival which always provides visitors with some peace and tranquillity during the busy weekend.

Joint co-ordinator Nick McDonald reports a positive build up to the event and hopes more stallholders will take the opportunity to participate saying: "Over the course of the weekend Feast & Fayre attracts thousands of people, so we hope more traditional craft and artisan stalls will take the opportunity to promote their wares to a captive audience.

"We have a fantastic line of entertainment this year, so it promises to once again be a fun-filled and enjoyable weekend."

To book a stall or find out more about the event visit www.horndon-feastandfayre.co.uk