That was the word from organisers as they this week thanked everyone who is contributing to the May 17 event, hailed as a celebration of creativity, culture, heritage and health.

And trotting along to help locals celebrate will be none other than (celebrity lookalike) Del Boy.

Banbridge District Council Events Officer Sandra Parker said, "This year, we've gone to great lengths to broaden the May Fair's appeal by working very closely with Dromore Chamber of Commerce and the local community to offer a jam-packed fun programme including creative crafts, cuddly creatures, international entertainers, charity events, community carnival and heritage tours.

"On behalf of the Council, I'd like to thank the local church groups, schools, community groups, individuals and businesses who have contributed to this year's event."

The event kicks off at noon with a craft fair in Market Square, boasting a selection of over 30 handcrafted wares, such as patchwork quilts, on display.

Dromore and District Historical Society are organising a photographic exhibition as well as local history bus tours of old Dromore at 1pm and 2pm.

For those interested in learning about the wealth of local linen heritage, there's a 3pm tour featuring a visit to McConville's Scutching Mill.

Market Square will remain the centre of attractions with activities including maypole dancing, ballroom dancing and animated acrobatics. Competitions, a charity bed-push and wildlife displays will also be taking place throughout the event.

Promoting awareness of cultural diversity - from noon until 5pm in the Square - a mix of local and international artists, among them the Bann Rhythm Irish Dance Troupe, Heatherbrook Silver Band, Patricia Hamilton School of Music and Performing Arts and Canadian band, The Paperboys (live at 3pm) will perform music, song and dance routines to suit all tastes.

Throughout the day families will be able to have fun and get fit at the interactive activity zone in Lower Mount Street, where a climbing wall, crazy golf, jumbo slides, bouncy castles and giant games will be among the activities available in the 'Highway to Health' challenge.

The grand finale will be the Community Carnival parade featuring a samba band, fancy dress and 'Festival of Sport' winners.

(All parade participants should assemble at Dromore Central Primary School car-park from 4.30pm and all children taking part must be accompanied by an adult).

The parade should arrive at the Square at about 5pm when the 'Festival of Sport' awards will be presented.

Sections of the roads around Market Square, Lower Mount Street and Bridge Street will be closed in the interests of public safety during the day and a courtesy shuttle bus service will be running all day from Dromore Community Centre to the town centre.

For further information contact the Council's Leisure Services Department on 028 4066 0605.