SCHOOLCHILDREN in Bicester have been putting their journalistic talents to the test by writing local news stories as part of a special competition.

Youngsters at The Cooper School were asked to come up with a localised topic on which to write a feature - with the winner having their 'copy' printed in the Advertiser.

Year 8 pupil Hannah Roe won the school competition with a look at one of the town's calendar highlight - the Teddy Bear Picnic.

She said: "I chose this topic because I thought there would be lots of different things to write about that were going on at the event.

"I enjoy writing because I can let people know what things are like, both good and bad, and it gives other people a chance to enjoy them to.

"I like the local newspapers because it gives me a chance to find out about the world for myself."

Below is the school's winning entry by Hannah, Year 8, about the importance of play in children's lives.

Each year, Bicester Town Council organises a child’s party in Garth Park. It is estimated that 3,000 children and parents squeeze into the park to celebrate this event, depending on the weather.

Traditionally the event is targeted at families with young children, but nowadays activities are for 0-19 years olds. Many families celebrate the day together with a picnic and use it as a great way to have a day out with friends.

Young children are encouraged to bring their own teddy bears along to the park and join in all the games that are organised by the Bicester Town Council.

Previous years have seen entertainment from The Oxfordshire Play Association who helped organise Punch and Judy shows. The event has even had visits from Peppa Pig and Spiderman.

The event offers children the chance to try out new activities like abseiling and go-karts.

Entertainment is often featured where children can watch local cheerleading teams or see street performers around the park. There has also been a little steam engine for children to ride on in the past, which is the only paying activity and costs 50p per ride.

Children can enjoy the new play park with its zip wire. The cafe will also be serving refreshments for parents and children.

However, the highlight of The Teddy Bear’s Picnic is the Best Dressed Teddy Competition where children bring their teddies dressed up and the Mayor chooses the 1st, 2nd and 3rd best dressed teddy bear. The owners of these teddies then receive prizes from the mayor. Hundreds of children enter this competition.

There are many different organisations involved. Cherwell District Council is one of the supporters. Its recreation and sport volunteers have attended the event all day offering tasters of the different sessions they run over the summer months.

The Playday is part of a campaign designed to celebrate the importance of play in children’s lives.