Story tales of Horfield Common

Learn about the history of Horfield Common and hear stories from its past during a weekend of arts and activities.

From noon on Saturday youngsters can enjoy three stories, written especially about Horfield Common, read to them by members of Heads and Tales, a local storytelling group.

People can also visit an imaginary museum to find out about the strange characters who have populated the common in the past, including the Saxon King Horfus and Three-Point Ned the highwayman.

Visitors can take part in a tree-dressing ceremony and listen to Looking For Elsie, a story about local boy Cary Grant, who started out in life in Horfield as Archie Leach.

There is also a chance for people to entertain passers-by and show off their music skills in the busking corner.

On Sunday there will be a fete run by the Friends of Horfield Common, with a bouncy castle, tea and cakes, stalls and a free bike maintenance workshop.

Ursula Wills-Jones, from Heads and Tales, said: "Horfield Common looks like a very ordinary suburban park, but it also has all sorts of fascinating history that people may not know about.

"It used to be the site of highway robberies, has a prehistorical burial mound, and was turned into allotments during the war, so it been a fantastic place to write about.

"We're really happy to be working with the Friends of Horfield Common to encourage people to come out and use green spaces instead of sitting in front of the TV.

"As well as taking part in some great activities it will be a really good chance for people in the area to come out and meet their neighbours."

For more information, call 07932 784 100.