AN OXFORD estate is preparing for its big annual party this weekend.

Up to 1,000 people are expected to head to The Barton Therapy Bash, a mix of facepainting, bouncy castles and arts and crafts workshops.

It all takes place on Saturday at the Neighbourhood Centre in Underhill Circus from 10am to 5pm.

The sixth annual event, run by the Barton Community Association, will be officially opened by president Chris Gerkin and Dorothy Pearce who, at 96, is the group’s oldest member.

The headline act is Barton’s Messy Jam, with other performances coming from Bayards Hill School choir and Barton Karate Group.

Sue Holden, 64, Barton Community Association secretary, said: “The whole day will be a mixture of fun, info, food and feeling good for all the family. We just hope that we are as lucky with the weather as we were last year.

“The good thing is the fact that people end up finding out who their neighbours are and also rekindling old friendships.”

For the event to continue, it needs continued funding of up to £3,500.

In 2011, it was postponed from June to November due to problems with red tape.

This is the second time it incorporates two of Barton’s top community events, the bash and the therapy day.

Other activities include a graffiti workshop, a cupcake kitchen, balloon modelling and an early visit from Father Christmas. All children’s activities are free.

Therapies like reflexology and facials can be booked from 11am onwards.

For more information call 07866 460446 or email susanholden@hotmail.com