The arrival and departure of a new Merlin helicopter from RAF Benson provided a spectacular attraction for a crowd of nearly 3,000 at the fifth annual Wallingford Charity Fun Day.

The crew brought along specialist equipment that provided endless fascination for visitors.

Another highlight was a 5km fun run, pictured, in which nearly 70 people took part including the Mayor of Wallingford, Theresa Jordan, who started the run.

There was a bonny baby competition, a tug-of-war competition, a children's entertainer and stalls. Event organiser Chris Tyndall ran a favours' auction which included the offer of a will service by local solicitors, and free sauna and sunbed sessions.

There were also live blues bands, including local group Gin House.

A song and poetry performance by the trio Chilidrader was held at the Crosskeys pub in the Kinecroft as part of the fun day.

Mr Tyndall said: "Proceeds from the day will help all age groups including the Work Centre for the Elderly and Disabled, Paddocks Pre-school and Wallingford Mini Rugby." A 160FT bungee jump was all part of a day's work for assistant pub manager Lulu Hudson.

She had been initially egged on by brother Gareth to join him in a tandem jump in aid of Abingdon Resuscitation Appeal.

Steve Luckett from Abingdon takes a diveBut he had to pull out because of another charity event, leaving Miss Hudson, 36, to face the ordeal on her own.

Miss Hudson, of the Fitzharris Arms, Abingdon, said: "Having raised more than £350 sponsorship, I had no option but to go ahead - but was was absolutely dreading it."

The jump - organised by the UK Bungee Club - was set up in the pub garden as part of the Morrells of Oxford Family Fun Day .

Fifty-five jumpers took part and each of them had to raise at least £45 sponsorship for charity.