A few weeks back, I mentioned that we would shortly be holding a free, all-day family event called Romfest.

With just over a week to go preparations are almost complete and, I must say, I’m very excited. Romfest takes place on Sunday 27 September and kicks off with a family fun run in Raphael Park, then it’s over to Romford market place for seven hours of music, dance and sport from midday.

Some of Havering’s finest local talent will be performing from two sound stages at either end of the market place, with headline performances on the main stage by family favourite and X-Factor finalist Chico, the newly re-formed Blazin’ Squad and UK soul legend Lemar.

The main stage acts will be introduced by top presenters from our local radio stations, Time 107.5 and Link 92.2m and, I’m told, there’ll be a number of surprise guests putting in a special appearance throughout the day.

There will be an active sports zone to try your hand at; music, art and crafts workshops; lots of great, free personal safety advice from the borough’s leading experts; a fashion show in the Liberty; guided tours of the 600-year old Golden Lion public house (a favourite haunt of Captain Blood and Dick Turpin) in aid of charity and even a roaming Chinese Lion Dance troupe!

Over at Brannigans nightclub in South Street, there’s the Romfest Best Rock Band competition from 5pm, where finalists ‘Kid Neon’; ‘Zalinski’; ‘L2N1′ (Loyal to No One), ‘Lobster’ and ‘Learn to Swim’ will battle it out.

The prize for the victorious band is a day in the recording studio, an unplugged set and live interview on local radio and the chance to perform in front of thousands at this year’s Big Christmas Light switch-on in Romford.

There really will be something for everyone – and it’s all Free! Visit the official Romfest webpage at www.havering.gov.uk/romfest for full programme details. See you there.

Best wishes,

Michael