THERE was a real buzz around the Public Gardens for the Alton Lions’ 11th annual Party in the Park, run in aid of the disabled young people of Treloar School and College.

A family fun day, packed while the sun shone and themed this year on ‘Superheroes’, the event provided an opportunity also for other charitable organisations to raise funds for their own worthwhile causes.

Compered by former mayor Dean Phillips, with PA equipment provided by Colin Longley, there was a lively programme of entertainment, kicked off by the highly-accomplished Alton College Jazz Band, and followed by songs from the shows, courtesy of the talented youngsters of Strictly Showtime. Next to demonstrate their skills were the children from Alton Infant School who, dressed as superheroes, performed some lively country dances before taking part in the parade of superheroes, led in a conga by Alton town crier Stan Whitcher and directed by Mr Phillips in a Superman outfit.

And then the stage was set for the exuberant and popular trio Tripwire.

In the meantime, there was children’s entertainment courtesy of Dave the balloon man, stilt-walker Sir Lupin of Pipwithers, Punch and Judy with Professor Peter Dan, a ride-on steam engine driven by owner Steve Cook, and a superheroes bouncy castle.

There was an opportunity to score a goal, throw wet sponges at folk in the stocks or hit golf balls courtesy of Alton College, and a chance to guide a model train around a track thanks to Alton Model Railway Group.

There were also refreshments available and a host of stalls offering games, raffles, craftwork and have-a-go activities, including rock painting.

The official welcome was given at noon when Elvis - aka Dave Hurrell - and a superhero from the world of rock ‘n’ roll, arrived aboard a pink Cadillac, owned and driven by Tony Vincent, accompanied by Alton mayor Derek Gardner and lady mayoress Cathy Gardner.

They were joined for the occasion by the town crier, Alton Lions past president Peter Bacon, and some modern-day superheroes from SERV Wessex Blood Runners, SCAS First Responders, a nurse from Anstey Ward at Alton Community Hospital, Jon Colville from the Treloar Trust and, stepping up from the annals of history, UK treasure and celebrated novelist Jane Austen - otherwise known as Pat Lerew!

Also in the gardens, but called out to attend a fire in Bordon, were firefighters from Alton who came with their fire engine, and four police officers from Alton and a patrol vehicle. They were accompanied by Lions dressed as suffragettes, plus a number of comic book super heroes and, of course, the Lion!

Refreshments throughout the day were provided through the Lions’ burger bar, and the tea and beer tent was manned by staff and supporters from Treloar’s.

Alton Lions have expressed grateful thanks to everyone who helped and turned out to support the event, especially sponsors Alton Town Council, Homes Estate Agents, First Exchange, and the Newbury Building Society.