Packed programme lined up for Wellingborough's WelliFest

Fitness sessions, provided by Fit4Less Gym, will kick-start the WelliFest celebrations on Saturday and Sunday by the mosaic in the town centre at 10am.

Nearby a Steampunk musical, performed by Ichabod Steam, hopes to capture the imagination of the crowds followed by live performances by various acts until 4pm.

The Castle Theatre will also host a Steampunk Cabaret show on the Saturday night.

Tickets for the event can be purchased beforehand and a special buy one, get the second one free offer is available using the code WF0918.

Theatre-goers will also receive a complimentary CD.

Aspiring young detectives will be able to try their hand at cracking the Wildlife Trust’s nature treasure hunt in Orient Way.

John Cable, executive director of Wellingborough Business Improvement District, which is organising the event, said: “This year’s event promises to be bigger and better than ever before.

“With a whole host of entertainment, the exciting programme of events promises to provide something for everyone.

“We hope that everyone comes to town to enjoy what’s on offer, celebrate our town and have lots of fun.”

If the weather takes a turn for the worse, there will be plenty of action taking place in The Swansgate Centre.

Children can get creative with Lego at the Make & Take free activity stall, or have their faces painted by children’s cancer charity Chelsea’s Angels, who will be stationed outside the entrance to the shopping centre alongside Richard Wilson, who will be entertaining passers-by with the musical sounds of the barrel organ, being played on behalf of Macmillan Cancer Support.

Outside on the Tithe Barn lawns people can enjoy a drink at The Old House Beer Bar and party to the sounds of the musical acts performing on a stage nearby while children enjoy free rides on a Honda Goldwing motorcycle.

Ferret racing, organised by the Abington Ferret Refuge, will get the crowds cheering in Croyland Gardens where visitors will also be able to have their photo taken with birds of prey and browse the stalls of the traders’ market.

One of Wellingborough’s oldest venues, The Hind Hotel, will be providing a ‘green screen’ virtual 3D photo opportunity.

Those visiting the 17th Century pub’s courtyard can enjoy barbeque food as well as family orientated activities.

Later on the party will get started with a children’s disco from 5pm.

Adults can take to the dance floor from 9pm.

Raff’s bar will open at lunchtime with live music and Jamrock Food serving WelliFest burgers and on Sunday the Salvation Army Band will provide musical accompaniment to a Songs of Praise sing-a-long.

Mick Henson’s latest creation, an 8.5ft model made from fire extinguishers, will be on display in Orient Way, together with members of Wellingborough Fire Brigade who will offering fire prevention advice from 10am to midday and 2pm to 4pm.