Animals and children can sometimes be a disastrous pairing but yesterday the two enjoyed a fun-packed day at a special party for under-fives.

Snakes, donkeys and rabbits were among the attractions at Cutteslowe Park, North Oxford, to mark national Sure Start month.

The event was organised by Oxfordshire County Council to promote the Sure Start programme, which provides support for children and families in the UK.

More than 1,500 youngsters were invited to the party, and parents, carers, and staff from pre-schools, family centres, day nurseries and toddler groups also turned up to enjoy the fun.

Beth Bowmer, from the council's early years and family support service, said the event was a way of thanking childcare providers.

She said: "This is all about the fantastic childcare and early learning and play across the county.

"It's also nice for providers to come along and feel part of a workforce in the community."

Animals played an important part in the day, with rabbits from Cogges Manor Farm Museum, a reptile show by Reptiles R Us and donkeys from the Island Donkey Sanctuary.

Josh Stares, four, from Combe, was in the reptile tent holding a 15-year-old snake while his younger brother Axel, three, watched.

Josh said he was having a really good day, adding: "I liked holding the snake. But it felt very dry."

All over the park children were running around excitedly trying out the fairground rides, blowing bubbles and jumping on bouncy castles.

And Oxford United provided free football coaching sessions for the youngsters.

Childminder Judy Brown said: "It's brilliant. The children all really enjoy themselves."

For information about support for childcare providers, call 08452 262636.