The bunting is up, the village lights are on and the yarn that many busy hands have been knitting is being put up on trees and lamp posts say organisers ahead of Stretham Feast this weekend.

The celebrations start on Friday 19 with a family picnic, open-mic session and BBQ on the Recreation Ground. On Saturday 20 there is a farmers market around the village cross in the High Street.

Feast Day itself is on Sunday 21 starting with an outdoor church service followed by a parade, led by the Cambridgeshire Caledonian Pipe Band. The parade finishes on the Recreation Ground where the Feast Fayre takes place with activities on offer, including a Wall of Death motor bike display, dog show, dunk tank, hog roast and fun fair.

The Arco Iris Samba Band, Wicken Coronation Band and the Rocking ukuleles will play live in the performance arena.

Janet Parish, chairman of Stretham Parish Council, said: “Stretham has been celebrating its Feast Day on the third Sunday of May since 1877.

“Initially the Feast was run to raise funds for Addenbrooke’s hospital, which in those days depended on voluntary contributions. Now we raise funds for a different health-related organisation each year: this year its Eddies, who provide a range of services for children, young people and adults with learning disabilities, and their families and carers.

“The Feast also gives village organisations an opportunity to raise much needed funds for themselves.

“It’s a real village celebration with everyone taking part and, this year, Jack Hurst is cutting the ribbon to start the parade. Jack was evacuated during the war to Stretham, grew to love the village and has been coming back ever since.”