Beach fun at Northfield by the Sea

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RESIDENTS in South Birmingham wanting a day at the seaside can enjoy an urban beach, complete with buckets, spades and deckchairs - in the centre of Northfield.

Northfield by the Sea is a free event that takes place in Price's Square, by the Post Office, between 10am and 4pm from Wednesday (July 25) to Sunday (July 29).

There will also be a big yellow American bus, face-painting, a fair ride, stilt walker, art and crafts, performances by Birmingham's Broadway Dance Centre, ice cream and even custom-made 'Northfield by the Sea' rock.

No trip to the seaside would be complete without Punch and Judy shows - they take place throughout the day and youngsters will be able to have their photograph taken with an Olympic torch - two are being brought along - by Dr Matt Bridge from Birmingham University and former young poet laureate Matt Windle.

There will also be free sports activities and football sessions in Victoria Common, behind Northfield Shopping Centre.

Andy Clarke, Chair of Northfield BID, said there was so much happening.

"We want to put Northfield on the map for fantastic events and Northfield by the Sea promises to be an exciting chance to holiday at home."

Northfield BID held a banner design competition in 20 local primary schools and, after almost 700 entries were received, three talented youngsters will have their artwork displayed on lamp posts in Northfield to help mark the start of the urban beach event.

For more, visit the Facebook page www.facebook.com/visitnorthfield or follow Visit Northfield on Twitter: www.twitter.com/visitnorthfield

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