The whole world comes to Swaffield

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Don't miss out on a world of fun

Swaffield school's annual summer fair this weekend will be a colourful array of music, food, dance and dress from all four corners of the globe.

The theme of the fair is "Around the World" and the pupils are being encouraged to don fancy dress costumes with an international feel, with prizes for the best entries.

As well as exotic outfits, a mouth watering array of foods from around the world will be on offer, and pupils will get the chance to beat out tunes and rhythms on a set of large African drums.

There will also be a display of Flamenco dancing by students with the acclaimed international dance group "Viva Flamenco", who have appeared live on stage at the Royal Albert Hall, The Barbican and the Festival Hall.

Other musical entertainment will be provided by the school's gospel choir and by the Wandle Delta String Band.

And in keeping with the international theme, a dramatic demonstration of poise and balance from the Far East is promised by an Ai Ki Jitsu group, who practice Aikido - a powerful martial art that can only be used for self-defence, and does not rely on strength to be effective. As such it is suitable for men and women of all ages and abilities.

More traditional entertainments include a balloon race with designer sunglasses for prizes, bouncy castles, kangaroo racing, face painting, hair braiding, Mendhi hand painting, tombola, coconut shy and a 'Beat the Goalie' penalty shoot-out competition.

There will also be a Pimms and sangria stand, international food stalls and to mark an English summer - one offering delicious strawberries and cream.

And to capture that favourite moment from the day, staff from the Wandsworth branch of Snappy Snaps will be there taking family portraits and snapshots of all the fun.

The fair will be held on Saturday, July 14 between 12 noon and 3pm. Admission is free
for children and £1 for adults. This entrance fee also pays for entry into the balloon race, which is being sponsored by the Wandsworth branch of Specsavers. Other sponsors of the fair include local estate agent firms Jacksons, De Souza and Craigie and Co.

Headteacher Christine Lilley said: "The children have put a great deal of thought and effort into their costumes, so it should be a really colourful and exciting fancy dress parade, and everyone at the school is really looking forward to tasting some of the amazing food that's being prepared.

"The whole afternoon promises to be great fun with lots of fun and exciting things to see and do. I would like to say a big thank you to all the parents who have got involved behind the scenes to organise so many fantastic activities and also to our sponsors who have been so generous with their donations."

July 12, 2007