FAMILIES enjoyed a fun day out in Bicester dressed up as their favourite superheroes for the town's first in-person event in 16 months.

Bicester Town Council hosted its second annual Superhero Day in Garth Park last Wednesday.

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Sponsored by Bicester Village, around 2,000 people went and children and young people enjoyed a host of free activities including rides and workshops.

Youngsters who wore their favourite superhero costume entered a free fancy dress competition – with first prize a £20 voucher for stationary shop The Works, and the two runners up won a £10 WH Smith voucher each.

All three winners also had their photograph taken with Bicester’s Mayor Councillor Nicholas Mawer and Marvel film character Iron Man.

Mr Mawer said: “This was a fantastic day. It was great to see everyone smiling and having fun - the weather was amazing making this a perfect day. One of the biggest hits of the day was a surprise visit from Iron Man who put a smile on everyone’s face.

“After what has been a difficult 16 months for everyone, it was wonderful to see so many people enjoying themselves in Garth Park again. We are now looking forward to hosting two live music events in the park later this month.”

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Some people who had a good time at the event expressed their enjoyment on the Bicester Town Council Facebook page.

Bicester resident Lou Tucker said: "We had a great day. Thanks so much to everyone who organised it."

Bicester ECU - a cheerleading club - said: "Thank you Bicester Town Council. Our team and their families had a wonderful day, it was beautiful to see so many happy faces."

Among the activities on the day were drumming workshops, Landzorbs, inflatable football darts, jugglers, stilt walkers, Bubbles by Bubbly Heaven, Cherwell Theatre Company Park Rangers, glitter tattoos, superhero workshops and a superhero versus fairies game show.

People enjoyed ice cream from Garth Park café Savoir Fare, and also brought their own picnics.

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The council said in a post on Facebook: "It was so lovely to see so many smiling faces from everybody. Congratulations to the winners of the Best Superhero Costume, you all look fabulous.

"Bicester Town Council would like to thank everybody for coming, we are so happy everybody enjoyed themselves."

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