ANNUAL fun day the Barton Bash is back this weekend, with organisers hoping the event will bring together communities from the estate and the newly-built neighbouring Barton Park development.

The free event aims to build community spirit and relationships within the Barton area.

This year’s Barton Bash will include face painting, martial arts, a tombola, bingo, stalls, family zumba dance sessions, live music, food and special exhibits from the Natural History Museum.

Sue Holden, secretary at the Barton Community Association, said: “We operate on a whole community approach, so when we talk about our beneficiaries it is everyone who lives in Barton and Barton Park. They are part of our community.

“Hopefully, we will see lots of Barton Park residents on Saturday coming to enjoy the fun that is to be had.

“We welcome everybody through those doors.”

This year’s event has been supported by a £500 donation from Redrow Thames Valley, currently building at The Steeples, located at Barton Park.

Ms Holden said: “We are extremely grateful to Redrow Thames Valley for this kind donation, as we rely solely on the generosity of local businesses to make this event happen.

“The event is a fantastic way to promote community spirit and ensure that those living at Barton Park have friends and neighbours right on their doorstep. It’s set to be a wonderful day!”

The Barton Community Association provides specialist support for people seeking help with finding work, those looking for training or educational courses and people who are thinking of setting up their own small businesses. The charity is independently run and therefore solely dependent on donations and sponsorships from local business and organisations who operate in the local area.

Alongside Redrow Thames Valley, the event is also supported by organisations including Thames Valley Police, Oxford City Council and Blenheim Palace.

Sarah Boyce, Sales Director for Redrow Thames Valley, said: “We’re delighted to be supporting the Barton Bash, and are so pleased that it can go ahead as planned. Here at Redrow, we strive to build more than just houses, and are committed to creating - and sustaining - thriving communities. This event is a fantastic way to bring local people together, make new friends and enjoy the fantastic new area we have created in Headington – we’re looking forward to seeing everyone there!”

The Steeples has recently launched its second phase, offering a number of three and four-bedroom homes, starting from £580,000.

The 2021 Barton Bash will be held on Saturday, September 25, at Barton Neighbourhood Centre at Underhill Circus, from noon to 4.30pm.