The Mayor of Richmond, Councillor Michael Jones, will officially start the proceedings at 10am and will oversee a special challenge as two teams compete to build him a decorative throne.

Highlights include the arrival of the Buzz Bus, a specially designed mobile theatre. Actors will perform an interactive show aboard the double decker bus, treating the audience to a true theatre experience.

The Royal Ballet School will give a live performance on stage at 2pm and there will be an environmental display by Richmond's EcoAction team.

Spot the puppy, star of the best-selling collection of books created by Eric Hill, will help judge the children's fancy dress competition.

Bargain hunters will also be able to browse through the collection of old books, videos, tapes and CDs on offer at Richmond lending library and the charity stalls.

Organiser Liz Carran said: "It is going to be even more fun than usual. People always rise to the occasion no matter what the weather."